Shillong, Septe13: Gender equality is enshrined in the Indian Constitution in itsPreamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties and Directive Principles. But inspite of various Acts passed and implemented by the government, women continue to be victims of mental and physical abuse which worries the governments and society at large. To find a solution to this problem is not easy but what we can do is contain it by empowering the womenfolk, economically and socially.
To create awareness and to deliberate thoroughly on the subject, a one day Seminar on Women Empowerment was held today at Raid Laban College, Shillong. This UGC sponsored programme was organized by the Academic Activity Committee Raid Laban College in collaboration with State Bank of India. The main aim of the programme is to bring forth the anomalies in the society to the forefront and to provide a common platform to identify the causes of violence against women and to find a solution to the problems. Renowned personalities drawn from colleges and university, police, media and social work dwelt at length on the topic to get a clear picture on the status of women and also to find answers to the problems faced by them.
The Deputy Speaker, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Mr. Sanbor Shullai, who inaugurated the seminar, said that empowering women should be a united approach, a cause that requires continued attention and stewardship by all. He said that is the responsibility of all to ensure their progress by providing them with equal rights and opportunities. Meghalaya is one of the few states to have the matrilineal system of society and women enjoy incomparable status and respect, but in these past few years, we see a worrying trend where women have been subjected to mental torture, rape, domestic violence and other atrocities, Mr. Shullai lamented. He felt that there is a need to empower women with financial and life skills thereby enabling them to earn a livelihood and help in improving the lives of their family and the community. He expressed hoped that the seminar will go in-depth into the problems and come up with a solution so that women can be empowered economically and socially.
The Deputy General Manager, State Bank of India, Mr. Deepak Kr. Lalla, who attended the programme as the Guest of Honour, expressed concern that the rate of crime against women is increasing day by day. To address this issue, one should take note that until and unless women are empowered, they will continue to be victimized, he said. He reiterated that literacy, employment, safety and security and change of mindset are the four major factors which will help tackle this menace. He informed that the State Bank of India have taken the initiative to organise special programmes relating to women empowerment. Moreover, the SBI is in partnership with the government in empowering women through aids, loan support so that they can be financially empowered. He hoped that the seminar. will deliberate on this sensitive issue and will come up with a solution so that the rights of women are not violated.
Earlier, Mr. Shullai inaugurated the Sports Seating Gallery in the premises of the college and also unveiled the commemorative plaque in memory of the founding members of the College who passed away.(SP News)
