MSCW lacking in every aspect : NCW member
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 28 2016: Even though Manipuri women are quite active in myriad socio-economic activities, their participation in political activities is quite dismal, stated National Commission for Women (NCW) Member Rekha Sharma.

Speaking to media persons at Hotel Imphal today, Rekha Sharma expressed keen desire for the State Government to take a pro-active role towards economic empowerment of women, particularly widows through skill development programmes.

Generally, widows above 40 years are entitled to pensions.

In Manipur, widows between 18 and 40 years were given one-time payment of Rs 2000.But many widows are yet to get even this paltry sum, Rekha said.

She remarked that the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) is lacking in every aspect.

Informing that she had talked with the Chief Minister on the matter, Rekha conveyed the Chief Minister's assurance to provide all possible assistance to improve the functioning and infrastructure of MSCW.

The MSCW receives 40 to 60 women-related complaints in a year.

However, many victims of violence against women do not file any complaint out of shame or are unaware of the presence of MSCW, she said.

There have been cases of Manipuri women including young girls being trafficked to metro cities of the country and abroad.

These women trafficking cases can be attributed to ignorance on the part of their parents.

As such, there is a growing need to create mass awareness about human trafficking.

The monthly emoluments of Rs 3000 per month and Rs 1500 per month entitled to Anganwadi Workers and Helpers respectively are too low.

Yet, they have not been given their monthly honorariums for the last seven months.

There is no retirement plan for Anganwadi Workers and Helpers while food items provided to Anganwadi Centres are either irregular or sub-standard, Rekha said.

Extensive sensitisation programmes should be organised for women police personnel on women-related issues, she added.

MSCW Chairperson Dr K Sobita informed that plans are afoot to open a legal aid cell at the office of MSCW in collaboration with the Manipur State Legal Services Authority to deal with legal matters pertaining to women.

The Chief Minister too assured to provide necessary assistance, she added.

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