Women Journalists Barred at Taliban Press Meet in Delhi; Rahul Gandhi Slams Modi
Published: October 11, 2025 | By: Vixeli News Desk
New Delhi – October 11, 2025
A press conference addressed by Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi turned controversial when women journalists were barred from participating. Only selected male reporters were allowed inside, prompting outrage from opposition leaders over gender discrimination and governmental silence.
Opposition Reaction & Rahul Gandhi’s Criticism
“When you allow the exclusion of women journalists from a public forum, you are telling every woman in India that you are too weak to stand up for them.”
— Rahul Gandhi
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi took direct aim at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the move a message of weakness. He said the government’s silence exposes the hollowness of slogans like ‘Nari Shakti’ (Women Empowerment).
Other opposition leaders also reacted sharply:
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra asked PM Modi to clarify his stance on excluding women journalists.
- Mahua Moitra called it “shameful,” saying it dishonors every Indian woman.
- P. Chidambaram said male reporters should have walked out in protest.
Government Response / MEA Clarification
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that India had no role in organizing the Taliban press event. Officials stated that invitations and entry permissions were handled entirely by the Afghan side, not the Indian government.
Backdrop & Significance
The controversy comes just as India upgraded its diplomatic mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy — seen as a cautious outreach toward the Taliban regime. The exclusion of women journalists on Indian soil is especially sensitive given the Taliban’s record on women’s rights in Afghanistan, where women remain banned from public offices and education beyond grade six.
Journalists noted they followed all dress and decorum guidelines but were still denied entry. The incident has reignited debate on India’s stand regarding gender equality and international diplomacy.
Source References: Times of India, Indian Express, India Today, Independent UK
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