A video of Union Minister Savitri Thakur has gone viral, showcasing an embarrassing moment during a school event in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar.
The footage captures Thakur mistakenly writing "Beti Padao Bachav" instead of the correct slogan "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" on a whiteboard. This slogan, which translates to "Save the daughter, educate the daughter," is a flagship initiative of the BJP government to promote girls' welfare and education.
The incident has sparked many reactions across social media and the political landscape. The video has drawn widespread ridicule and severe criticism, particularly from the opposition. The Congress party seized the opportunity to lambaste the BJP, calling the gaffe "a misfortune for democracy" and questioning the minister’s competence and literacy. They argue that such a mistake undermines the seriousness of the government’s commitment to the initiative.
On the other hand, the BJP has come to Thakur's defence, accusing the Congress of harbouring "anti-tribal thinking." They argue that the criticism is an unfair attack on Thakur, who represents a tribal constituency and has worked hard to promote education and welfare in her community. The BJP claims that the opposition’s reaction is politically motivated and dismissive of the efforts made by tribal leaders.
The viral video has ignited a broader discussion about the qualifications and preparedness of public officials, especially those in key positions of influence. Many social media users have expressed concerns about the minister’s ability to effectively champion educational programs if she struggles with basic literacy. Memes and sarcastic comments have flooded platforms like Twitter and Facebook, with hashtags related to the incident trending nationwide.
Amid the backlash, some voices have called for a more measured response, suggesting that while the mistake is unfortunate, it should not overshadow the minister’s overall contributions. They argue that the focus should remain on the importance of the "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" program and ensuring its successful implementation across the country.
The incident has undoubtedly placed Union Minister Savitri Thakur in a difficult position, with the viral video continuing to circulate widely. As the political fray intensifies, it remains to be seen how this will impact her role and the broader perception of the government’s educational initiatives.
