Yogi warns offenders threatening women’s safety: ‘Choose between jail or hell’

Varanasi, Sep 9 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday warned mafia and criminals that those who threaten the safety and dignity of women and daughters in the state would have to choose between jail and hell.

Addressing a Working Women’s Honour Ceremony in Pindra, the Chief Minister said his government would not compromise on the safety of women and would take strict action against those attempting to create fear among them.

“Those who try to compromise the safety of daughters will have to choose between jail and hell,” he said, asserting that a clear message had been sent to mafia and gangsters in the state.

Taking a dig at the opposition, Mr Adityanath said the government does not bow before any mafia for the sake of vote-bank politics. He alleged that during elections, some political parties make fresh announcements and attempt to divide society along caste lines, but their stance changes when it comes to taking action against notorious criminals.

The Chief Minister said that before 2017, families were often worried about the safety of their daughters when sending them to school, college or vocational training. Concerns also included the lack of household toilets, the health impact of kitchen smoke, inadequate income and limited access to healthcare.

He said that when women aspired to pursue careers outside their homes, issues such as safety, connectivity, opportunities and the cost of travel often stood in their way.

According to Mr Adityanath, the state government has now developed a system that not only introduces welfare schemes but also removes obstacles to ensure their benefits reach eligible beneficiaries.

He said that after assuming office in 2017, the government resolved to promote the education and empowerment of daughters while removing fear and insecurity from their path.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the changes in women’s mobility and safety in the state, saying that a strong foundation had been laid for the protection of women and girls.

“Nine years ago, the question was how to step out of the house; today, the question is how far to go,” he said.

On the political front, Mr Adityanath said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the MP from Kashi, has worked for every section of society and remains among the globally recognised political leaders.