Priyanka Chaturvedi, the Congressional Spokesperson for India’s UPCC Party, has resigned from her position. Chaturvedi stated in a message on Twitter that this was a result of misbehavior by workers as well as a lack of regard for her within the party ranks.
The UPCC Party recently reinstated multiple workers who Chaturvedi claims “misbehaved” toward her at a press conference in the town of Matura. She had previously tweeted about this issue two days before resigning, calling out those reinstated for abusing and threatening her. The UPCC only banned these members for a few days and did not proceed with any punishments for their behavior.
Chaturvedi stated in her official resignation that the actions by the UPCC Party showcase the lack of care and respect given to her within the ranks of the party. She pointed out that, “despite the safety, dignity, empowerment of women being promoted by the party,” these policies and stances were not “reflected in the action of some members.“
This case is just one example of the indifference given to women throughout India surrounding cases of harassment, sexual assault, and rape. Despite her position of authority, Chaturvedi’s case highlights that no women are protected from the discriminatory culture that exists. Chaturvedi’s case has gained international attention and hopefully will spark newfound awareness for the women in any position in India facing these issues.
Media: BBC 2019; Times of India 2019
