Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Mayor Malti Rai said that true equality can only be achieved when downtrodden women feel confident and equal. "Each and every day should be Women’s Day," she added.
She was speaking at the event Parivaar Utsav 2025, organized by Uday Social Development Society, themed Accelerating Action at LNCT University in the city to mark International Women’s Day.
IG, Women’s Safety Wing, Himani Khanna, said, “Only when a woman’s security and dignity are assured at all times can we speak of true empowerment of women,” adding that domestic violence remains an issue that often goes unnoticed and must be eliminated from society.
Police Commissioner Harinarayan Chari Mishra highlighted how conditions for women have improved over time and discussed the M.P.
Police’s dedicated efforts in curtailing gender-based violence. Vineet Kapoor (DIG, MP Community Police) spoke to survivors and congratulated them on their strength and courage.
Others present at the event included Sushma Babisha (MIC member, General Administration, Nagar Nigam Bhopal), Kiran Kerketta (IG, Women’s Safety Wing, M.P. Police), Joyatri (State Head, UN Women), and Amarjeet (UNICEF consultant), along with members from various CBOs (community-based organizations). ASHA workers, URJA desk in-charges, Town Inspectors, and Shakti Samiti members were also among the attendees.
The event was witnessed by nearly 1,400 women, adolescent youth, and men. These attendees were mobilized by members of Nyay Chaupal, an initiative by Uday that operates as a community-based legal aid cell aimed at raising awareness and challenging gender discrimination and patriarchy. Malti Rai praised this initiative for its work with women and adolescents in marginalized communities, bringing about genuine change.
Following a captivating puppet show and dance performance by adolescent groups condemning child marriage and gender-based violence, Lizy Thomas, Director of Uday Society, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the significance of gender equality and empowerment.
The event proceeded with a display of strength by domestic violence survivors through activities such as a self-defense demonstration, a power walk, and Meri Kahaani, Meri Zubaani—a presentation of their impact stories. A folk dance performance by Nyay Chaupal leaders enthralled the audience.
Lizy Thomas added that gender equality is an issue for both men and women, and everyone must take responsibility for building an equitable world for present and future generations. The event concluded with an award ceremony recognizing women from the community who have provided exceptional service as change agents for women’s empowerment, as well as police officers who have supported them dedicatedly.
