Imphal, September 25: The status of women in Manipuri society was hotly debated during the 10th foundation day of the All Manipur Democratic Women's Association (AMDWA) which was held at the Nupi Lan Memorial complex here today.

Prof Ksh Bimola Devi of Political Science Department, Manipur University; Deputy Director of State Archives Sushila Devi, Prof Shantibala Devi of Life Science Department, MU and president of AMDWA A Binodini Devi graced the function as presidium members.

All those who spoke at the occasion on the topic of 'Movement of Manipur's women and the role of Jananeta Hijam Irabot', stressed on the dichotomy of the position of the women in Manipuri society and the need to join hands in finding a solution to this.

Project Officer (Child Development) of Social Welfare, Chandel district N Usharani observed that Manipuri women have a tendency to throw themselves into any issues without a clear understanding of the matter.

'The most important thing at present now is to find out the ways and means of solving the problems before us', she said.

Usharani pointed out that despite occupying a relatively higher status in the society, the Manipuri women are facing the same sort of problems like their counterparts in other States.

No doubt, Manipuri womenfolk have certain economic freedom in comparison to their counterparts, but they are not yet free of exploitation, violence and harassment at work place.

Nor can they move freely at night without any fear.

This is no exception even for those womenfolk who are posted in far off places, she said, adding that the women are also being subjected to all sorts of domestic violence.

Advocate Sumitra Kamei lamented that although the Constitution of India guarantees equal rights to man and woman, it is altogether a different picture when it comes to its application at the social level.

In a patriarchal set up, the womenfolk are forced to live under the domination of the men.

AMUCO advisor Dhanabir Laishram pointed out that the concept of unity propounded by Irabot was unity among the people and the organisations which have their different ideologies and goals.On the status of the Manipuri women, he noted that with the passage of time, a lot of changes has been brought about.

There are many educated women and organisations working for the welfare of the women now.

The Meira paibis are also playing pivotal role and contributing their mite in resolving various social issues.

However, when it comes to combating the issue confronting by them, the Manipur womenfolks are still lagging behind.

They do not even have the right wisdom in choosing their own representatives.

Comment