Mangalore: Bhanwari Devi calls upon women to collectively fight for their rights
Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (VM)
Mangalore, Mar 8: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, like-minded organizations under the banner of Mahila Dourjanya Virodi Vedike (Forum Against Atrocities on Women) and the network of women’s group on Friday March 8 joined together and held a massive rally, followed by a convention to raise voice against atrocities faced by women.
The rally was flagged off by Susheela Nada, Kundapur, president of Koraga Abhivruddhi Sangagala Okkuta at Bunts hostel circle and concluded at Karavali Utsav grounds where convention was held.
Mangalore was chosen as the venue for the event in view of the recent attacks against women in the name of culture and various other instances, the organizers said.
Bhanwari Devi from Bhateri in Rajasthan was the chief guest who inaugurated the convention. She was allegedly gang-raped 20 years ago by upper caste men and since then, has fought courageously fought for justice, despite being ostracized from her own community. Her long battle has shaped the women's rights movements in Rajasthan and the nation at large. Her experience led to the formation of the Vishaka Guidelines to prevent sexual harassment at workplace.
Addressing the gathering, Bhanwari Devi in her brief message said that incidents of exploitation of women are on the rise in the country and called upon people to raise their voice against it. "Stop the hate groups, commit yourself to change towards a violence-free society," she proclaimed.
"Give vote to those who can provide security to us, who are concerned about the welfare of women and not to those who encourage exploitation of women," she added.
"Women should fight together for their rights, equality, freedom and respect," she asserted.
Veteran litterateur Sara Abubakar said that she was happy to be part of a convention where women in huge numbers had come forward to raise their voice against atrocities. "We know the present condition of the city where women have faced so many problems and I am happy that at least now they are aware and are ready to fight for it," she said.
"If this was the condition in Kerala, then women would have stepped into streets to fight for justice. Women should fight collectively when problem comes their way," she said.
"In the past, Women’s Day was celebrated in a different manner. This year we have planned to create awareness on this day emphasizing equality in society," said Susheela Nada, president of Koraga Abhivriddi Sangagala Okkuta, "Sometimes, we see that there is no humanity among some men. In this regard, all women with the same intention should collectively fight and feel the pain when others face problem. Only by doing so can we get rid of the problem," she said.
Sukri Bommanagowda from Halakki Okkaligara Sangha, Ankola urged the society to treat men and women as equals. She asked people to join at least one of the organizations which work in the interest of women and participate in their growth.
"There is no religion for our tears as it is the same for every woman," said Shehanaz M, editor of Anupama monthly, a women-oriented periodical in Kannada. She said without woman, there is no meaning to a house and it is equal to a grave. "Do not praise us, but at least give respect and importance to women," she added.
Various songs on atrocities faced by women were presented on the occasion by different groups.
Vasundara Bhoopathi from Karnataka writers association, Rathi Rao, Ratnamma from Garment labors union, Gowri from municipal workers union, Apoline Gomes, Neela, Sharanamma from domestic workers association, Geetha, Sadana Mahila Sangha, Chandini from sexual minorities community, Sukhalaxmi Suvarna, Billawa Mahila Sangha, Roop Manorama, Professor Raita Noronha among others were present.
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