New Delhi, Mar 8 (IANS): Politicians on Friday expressed their admiration for women on the occasion of International Women's Day, hailing them as the backbone of the society and called for ensuring constitutional rights for them.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi admired the "fighting spirit" of women and exhorted the general public to remove those obstacles that hinder their growth.

"While saluting the undaunted, fighting spirit of women this International Women's Day, I would also like us to recommit ourselves to breaking the barriers that continue to hinder their path to freedom and equality.

"In doing so, a better, brighter, braver world awaits us," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Bahujan Samaj Party Supremo Mayawati said on Twitter: "Hearty greetings on International Women's Day to all women, who are half of the 130 crore population especially to those who are dedicated towards serving interest of family, society and country."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called women the backbone of the society and reminded people of the long-delayed Women Reservation Bill for parliamentarians.

"Women are the backbone of our society. They are our pride. On International Women's Day 2019, I want to congratulate all the women around the world. Today I will participate in a march to mark the occasion in Kolkata.

"While the Women's Reservation Bill has not yet been passed in Parliament, I am proud that our party AITC has 35 per cent women MPs in the 16th Lok Sabha. We have also reserved 50 per cent seats in local bodies for women candidates," she said on the social media platform.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended their greetings on the occasion.

The theme this year for the International Women's Day, which is celebrated annually on March 8, is 'Balance for Better'.