UP CM Yogi Adityanath Claims State Now 'Symbol of Women's Empowerment'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has asserted that his state has transformed from a region questioned over women's safety to a model of women's empowerment, marking the second day of Sharadiya Navratri with prayers to Maa Brahmacharini in Lucknow.

In a social media post, the Chief Minister contrasted the situation before and after 2017, stating that a zero-tolerance policy toward crime, technology-based surveillance, and public awareness campaigns have created what he described as a fear-free environment for women. He emphasized that initiatives such as Mission Shakti's five phases, the Safe City Project, and women beat policing have established a comprehensive safety framework.

Adityanath highlighted significant growth in women's representation within the police force, noting that the female police workforce has expanded from 10,000 to over 44,000 officers through a 20 percent reservation policy. Additionally, three women Provincial Armed Constabulary battalions have been established in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Badaun, named after historical warrior figures Veerangana Uda Devi Pasi, Veerangana Jhalkari Bai Kori, and Veerangana Avantibai Lodhi respectively.

The Chief Minister connected the religious observance to principles of determination and perseverance, stating that the government's journey from ensuring women's safety to promoting empowerment reflects the goal of achieving a prosperous Uttar Pradesh through empowered women.