Remove ‘weaker section’ tag on women

SHILLONG, MAR 7: Meghalaya social welfare minister Deborah Marak has suggested removing the “weaker section” tag often used when referring to women even as she underlined the need to improve the system by empowering women socially, politically and economically.

Addressing the International Women’s Day observed in advance at the Sri Aurobindo Institute of Indian Culture on Saturday  organized by the social welfare department, Marak remarked, “It is high time that we should do away with the word ‘weaker section’, since women have achieve a lot in the various fields including politics.”

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is -“Equality for Women is Progress for all.”

Stating that women are more sensitive than men, Marak said, “Whatever responsibilities we are given whether in politics or business, we do better jobs than men,” adding “It is also time that our progress should be reflected in the courageous act of women against any forms of discriminations.”

Marak said there is a need to improve the education and health system, especially in rural areas adding, “If you want to know how far a locality or society has improved, you will have to judge from the living style of women.” According to her, improvements in the health and education system are the main factors that contribute to the progress and growth of a society.

“Our collective effort in ensuring equality to women is the road of progress for all,” Marak asserted. She said Meghalaya is proud of its unique ‘matrilineal society’ but which only sounds good sometime. She, however, said but the question women needs to ask is whether they are being treated equally or are they still being suppressed?

Marka also informed that the Indian constitution has empowered all its citizens through the principle of equality and equal rights.  “The constitution also empowers the state to ensure that every citizens are not deprived of their rights,” she said adding it is only when we reassure ourselves that we get equal rights then we can say ours is a unique system.

Marak, therefore, said if we want a society to progress, women should be equipped socially, politically and economically. She urged the women not to succumb but to fight against any discrimination and violence meted against them.

Marak informed there are legal provisions already in place to counter against social discrimination and violence. She said,“If you faced any problem, do not succumb to pressure as you have the right to approach the law and also take advantage of the officials to guide you.”

Stating Meghalaya is a state where women are believed to enjoy a special place in the society, Marak however said felt there is wide gap that still exists between men and women. Pointing out the increasing crimes against women and divorce cases with no maintenance, she said all these things have to be look into to ensure that women are strong enough to fight and stand for their rights.

Other  dignitaries who  were present were PW Ingty, principal secretary of social welfare department, T Dkhar, commissioner and secretary of social welfare department, HM Shangpliang, director of social welfare department, Dr. D Kyndiah, Meghalaya State Social Welfare Board, representatives from women’s organizations, officers of social welfare department, Aganwadis, Rangbah Shnong and others.- By Our Reporter