SM Fasiullah for BeyondHeadlines
Real progress towards equality, development and peace can’t be possible without addressing women issues and ensuring their safety. They deserve dignity and their due share in all spheres of life.
Welfare Party of India (WPI) Andhra Pradesh chapter organized a workshop on women issues for its women cadre on 3rd June at its state head office in Lakdika Pool, Hyderabad.
With the participation of various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the workshop explored issues concerning women in India. Participants discussed issues such as sexual harassment, women health, and violence against women.
Through this workshop, we want to bring awareness about women issues among the cadre, and prepare them for ground work by informing them of practical challenges faced by NGOs working in the concerned areas, noted WPI AP Women’s Wing Secretary Khalida Parveen.
Women activist Ms. Kinnara from Sankalp (NGO) talked about increasing sexual violence cases and the need to support women who suffered it. Ms. Kinnara said her organization seeks to increase awareness of sexual assault and prevent sex crimes through advocacy and education.
Ms. Umbica, an activist from Aman Vedica, discussed the issues of homeless women. Anveshi Research Centre vice president deliberated on women and health, while women movement topic was discussed by Ms. Pavana of Chaitanya Mahila Sangam.
Speaking to BeyondHeadlines, WPI National President Mujtaba Farooq said that women have been exploited over the ages and across cultures.
“Woman supports us in life. The best way to return her favours would be to do her more favours,” Mr. Farooq added.
When asked about increasing crimes against women in India, Mr. Farooq said that this social problem is a result of our development policies.
“Our development policies are influenced by the West. The country capitalizes on these development policies, while overlooking human dignity and values such as family, marriage, etc.”
“With the onset of this culture along with development, crimes against women have grown in the country. A 2011 report says that human trafficking has rose to alarming 120%. Everyday about 200 daughters are pushed into flesh trade.
“Welfare Party will fight for woman’s rights in every sphere, in addition to attempting to restore her dignity and safety.”
WPI General Secretary Dr SQR Ilyas and Andhra Pradesh President Malik Motasim Khan also addressed participants. The workshop concluded with Ms. Parveen’s vote of thanks.
