PM Modi’s remarks came in the wake of two tragic incidents—the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata and the sexual abuse of two young girls in Badlapur, Maharashtra. He acknowledged the pain and anger felt by women across the country and called for accountability at every level of society.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of holding everyone accountable, from hospitals to police stations, in cases of crimes against women. He insisted that negligence in protecting women’s safety is unacceptable and that such offences should be treated with the utmost seriousness.

Modi reiterated that the safety of mothers, sisters, and daughters is a priority for India. He urged all political parties and state governments to take crimes against women seriously and to ensure that the guilty are punished without exception.

At the Lakhpati Didi Sammelan, PM Modi discussed his government’s efforts to empower women over the past decade. He highlighted the significant financial support provided to women’s self-help groups through the Sakhi Mandal programme, which has distributed Rs 9 lakh crore in loans.

PM Modi praised the Lakhpati Didi scheme, which aims to raise the income of women in self-help groups. He announced the release of a Rs 2,500 crore revolving fund to benefit 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh self-help groups, further empowering women and their families.

Modi emphasised the vital role women play in India’s economic growth, noting that their participation in programmes like Jan Dhan and Mudra has significantly contributed to the country’s development. He pointed out that 70 per cent of Mudra scheme beneficiaries are women, many of whom have successfully repaid their loans.

The Prime Minister announced an increase in the upper limit for Mudra loans to Rs 20 lakh, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs. He urged women to take advantage of these opportunities to build successful businesses and contribute to the nation’s prosperity.

Modi praised Maharashtra as a "shining star" of a developed India and called for the continuation of the BJP-led Mahayuti government to ensure the state’s stability and growth. He highlighted the importance of investment and job creation in Maharashtra’s future.

PM Modi recalled the historical connection between Maharashtra and Poland, where Polish refugees were sheltered during World War II. He shared that during his recent visit to Poland, he witnessed the deep respect Polish people hold for Maharashtra, underscoring the state’s longstanding tradition of generosity and compassion.