Power Commissioner calls for greater participation of women in workforce
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, April 03 2025: Dr Shailesh Kumar Chourasia, IAS, Commissioner (Power) has underscored the need to empower women by encouraging their participation in the workforce, advocating for economic contribution over being confined to domestic roles and disguised unemployment.

The Power Commissioner made the remark at the sensitization programme on "Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013" organised by Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL) at the Conference Hall, State Load Dispatch Center (SLDC), Yurembam, Imphal today.

Dr Shailesh Kumar Chourasia asserted that sexual harassment remains a significant barrier preventing women from entering the workforce, openly participating in.

workplaces, and pursuing employment opportunities.

He noted that the participation rate of women in jobs and economic activities in Manipur remains considerably lower compared to other regions.

He highlighted the importance of Vishaka Guidelines, established by the Supreme Court to address sexual harassment at the workplace and urged everyone to familiarise themselves with the guidelines.

Stressing the need to raise awareness, he emphasised that knowing one's rights is crucial.

Speaking at the programme, Ningthoujam Jeevanmala Devi, president, Centre for Women Development, Elangbam Leikai, highlighted the pivotal roles played by the women's NGOs in addressing issues such as crimes and violence against women, atrocities against women and child welfare.

Taking part in the event, Yumnam Robita, IAS, Special Secretary (Power), asserted that victims should not wait until a situation escalates before reporting an incident and stated that harassment must be addressed at the earliest instance.

N Brajakanta Singh, Assistant Professor of Law, Dhanamanjuri University, Manipur, also gave a PowerPoint presentation on "Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace".

Additionally, MSPCL has reconstituted its ICC under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 comprising 5 members.

N Jasobanta Singh, Executive Director (G&C), MSPCL; M Rubina Devi, Executive Director (F&A), MSPCL; Orjubala Haorongbam, Executive Director (HR), MSPCL; Khundrakpam Margaret, Deputy General Manager (HR), MSPCL; Laishram Richard Singh, Manager (IT), HR, MSPCL and staff of MSPCL attended the programme.

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