International Women’s Day (IWD) events were held by private organisations around the state yesterday.
A candlelight vigil was held by Seng Treilang ki Kynthei on Saturday in honour of IWD, expressing solidarity with victims of abuse.
Battinora Rani, the secretary of Seng Treilang, voiced her concern over the daily reports of women experiencing abuse. She emphasised that these issues should not be limited to private discussions but should instead prompt society as a whole to stand in solidarity with women who are victims of violence.
She urged society to unite in condemning the atrocities committed against women. Rani stressed that girls should remain vigilant and that men should not look down upon women.
She mentioned that the foundation of respect begins at home, emphasising the importance of moral values instilled by parents.
With the increasing violence against women and children, Rani noted that parents must be proactive in teaching their children to respect one another, regardless of gender. She was of the opinion that instilling these lessons of respect can significantly reduce violence, starting in homes or places of worship.
The Women’s Welfare Organisation (WWO), Seiñraij Jowai, observed IWD yesterday.
The programme was held at the Dorbar Seiñraij, Loompyrdi Iongpiah in Jowai. Yoosarda Najiar, District Social Welfare Officer of West Jaiñtia Hills, was the chief guest in the presence of EMH Passah and vice-president Seinraij Jowai, among others.
Najiar stressed the theme ‘Accelerate Action’ and enlightened on the various government schemes to assist women.
Rilistina Pyrbot, member of the WWO, said women have risen in all fields and have always got the support of their uncle, father, husband, brother and emphasised on the need to respect each other. Felicitation of the winners of a walkathon and marathon were also part of the festivities.
Meanwhile, the Meghandini Mahila Samiti, in association with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Directorate of Arts and Culture, celebrated IWD here.
Members started the event with a rendition of the National Anthem, with various cultural activities and a talk on women empowerment, etc organised. The members also bestowed the title of Woman Icon of Shillong on Chinmoyee Gupta Roy, a yoga coach-cum-trainer, educator and social worker.
