MARGAO
While stressing on unity among women, former MMC councillor Monica Dias categorically stated that she will not contest elections.
Addressing a gathering of women at a function organised by her in Margao on Wednesday, Monica said is time to create awareness in society and fight all atrocities committed against women such as domestic violence, rape, etc.
Monica also announced that she will not contest elections, but hoped young women who are “really hard working” will rise in politics on par with their male counterparts.
Speaking on the occasion, former chairperson of Women's Commission, Dr Pramod Salgaonkar, said women have to fight for their rights and win on their own strength.
Former Cumbharjua MLA Nirmala Sawant, who also addressed the gathering, called for imparting value-based education to the girl child, even as she questioned as to whether women are really united in the society.
MMC Chairperson Dr Babita Angle Prabhudesai gave a clarion call to women to stand by women who are victims of domestic violence. She felt it is time for women to make their mark in the political arena, while claiming that women can lend a hand of compassion to the society.
Auda Viegas of Bailancho Ekvott termed women as the best managers of both --- heart and home --- even as she urged women to usher in “cleanliness of thought and behaviour” in the society.
ZP member Nelly Rodrigues termed the Mahila Shakti Abhiyan as dead due to the financial crunch faced by State government, which, she said, has not sanctioned funds for this Abhiyan. She called on women to show unity and solidarity because in unity lies strength. “Without 33% reservation, it is is difficult for women to fight the money power of men,” she told the gathering.
Former Santa Cruz MLA Victoria Fernandes spoke of empowerment of women and expressed the need for women to sit in decision-making bodies so as to fight against injustice.
Women celebrities from all walks of life were also felicitated on the occasion. They included fashion designer Verma D'Mello, former MMC councillor Zarina Shah, former Mormugao municipality chairperson Tara Kerkar, Anganwadi worker Anusuya Kambli, social workers --- Piedade and Josephine Pacheco.
Those present included former Mormugao municipality chairperson Lavina D'Souza, former Cansaulim sarpanch Fausta Fernandes, Cansaulim panch member Martha Saldanha and Jyoti Kunkolienkar among others.
