By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Being a matrilineal society, women in Meghalaya are often considered special and they don’t need to fight for their rights. However, it is sad to note that atrocities against women in the State are on the rise, Urban Affairs Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh observed on Thursday.
The lone woman legislator in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly made the observation while speaking about the role of women as real architects of the society on the occasion of the International Women’s Day which was observed in the city on Thursday.
“There is a need for women to come forward and build a healthy society through political forum,” Ampareen said, while stressing on the need to focus attention to women empowerment.
Organized by the Synjuk ki Kynthei Catholic Shillong Archdiocese at Catholic Women’s Evening School, the Women’s Day celebration started with a Holy Mass which was preceded by a special programme attended by students of the school.
While terming woman as an all-round family developer, Ampareen, however, lamented over the lack of respect and kindness shown to women these days.
“We are taken for granted by our male counterparts. Women have to face many challenges in the 21st century especially when it comes to their safety and security,” she stated.
Focusing on this year’s United Nation theme, “Empower Rural Women – End Hunger and Poverty”, the Urban Affairs Minister admitted that women in the State are still lagging behind in many aspects.
“We have a big role to play in the society,” she said.
Meanwhile, lauding the school for its benevolent effort in providing education to those women who lack the opportunity to study, Ms Lyngdoh said, “We need to support such institutions which are unique in their vision”.
Earlier, Fr Leo M Lyndem, a parish priest of Mawbri Parish, while pointing out various crimes being committed against women, called upon the men to look at women as their mothers, sisters and wives. “It is our responsibility to ensure that the society is safe from crimes against women,” he said.
The function was also attended by founding member of the Synjuk, Flora Ranee, president of the school, P Kharnaior besides other members of the Synjuk, and students of the school.
Meanwhile, the International Women’s Day was also celebrated by the District Social Welfare Office, East Khasi Hills in collaboration with Meghalaya State Commission for Women and partner NGOs at Sohryngkham near Mawryngkneng.