Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 10:
Serious concern over the practice of female foeticide and stress on educating the gild child were the hallmarks of the day-long special AGP camp organised by Manipur State Social Welfare Board under the theme of Manavi Adhikari Divas at the office premises of the Board, today.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr L Ibetombi observed that although there is no official record of female foeticide in Manipur, nevertheless it is still practiced in a smaller scale in comparison to other States.
In most of the cases, contrary to popular belief, it is done at the initiative of the would-be-mothers, and not from their male counterparts, she pointed out.
The camp was organised as part of the Manavi Saurakshan Abhiyan, 2004 campaign being taken up under the sponsorship of the Board since March last.
The objective of the campaign is to empower women and make them aware of their rights.
Dr Ibetombi said that although Constitution of India guaranteed and gives many rights to the women, many of them are still unaware of their rights and duties.
Highlighting on the importance of providing proper education to girls, she observed that many of the problems encountered by womenfolk in Manipur are deep rooted in ignorance and lack of proper education.
While stressing on the need for setting up a State Women Commission, she said every woman should press for this demand.
Presenting a talk on the theme of 'Rights of female and atrocities towards female in present society', Advocate Harishaya Devi described in details various laws/Acts through which a women victim could redress their grievances.
She closed her talk by observing that despite legislation of various laws and Constitutional guaranteed, crimes against women in society is on the rise.
This only shows the pressing need for making the womenfolk to understanding their rights and other legal provisions given in the Constitution, she noted.
In her address, Board chairperson RK Binita who attended the function as chief guest said the role of man and woman is equally important for development in a society.
She also appreciated the efforts being made by the State Government for setting up a Women Commission.