The Hindu : New Delhi News : NGO for action to end violence against women

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Friday, Dec 07, 2007
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NGO for action to end violence against women

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: Recounting the shameful incidents of violence committed against women in conflict situations, a non-government organisation, Women Power Connect, has called for creation of a powerful body to intervene and combat such atrocity committed by an individual or a cross-section of society.

Addressing a media consultation titled “Call to action: Elimination of violence of all forms to ensure security to women in India” here on Thursday, Women Power Connect president Ranjana Kumari said: “The recent incidents of violence against women in Nandigram and Guwahati are not being taken seriously by our political leadership which is why the civil society and media need to collectively raise this issue in a powerful manner.”

“Such incidents are not reflective of a developing economy and growing society, but a decadent society which is not bothered about human dignity,” she added.

To provide protection to women being targeted in crisis situations, Dr. Kumari suggested appointment of a national commission. “At the time of crisis be it political violence or communal violence, the police remain mere spectators and fail to provide any protection when women are targeted. This is why we want an empowered commission to be set up to do the job,” said Dr. Kumari.

Emphasising the need for creating mechanisms aimed at preventing such crimes, Dr. Kumari said: “We are demanding that women be made part of any peace negotiating body formed during a crisis situation, be it in the North-East, naxalite areas or any other areas.”

“We have also suggested the observation of a ‘National Shame Day’ every year to highlight the atrocities committed against women.”

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