Need for women becoming self-reliant seen

Emphasising the importance of self-reliance among women, Vijayanagara Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S. Mannikeri on Saturday said that self-defence is not merely a display of physical strength but a reflection of confidence and every woman must equip herself with skills to face difficult situations.

She was speaking after inaugurating a self-defence training workshop for women organised at Vijayanagar College in Hosapete in collaboration with the Women Empowerment Cell.

Noting that women today have made their mark in diverse fields such as medicine, arts, architecture, business, science and technology and even space research, Ms. Mannikeri said that incidents of exploitation and violence against women continue to persist despite growing empowerment.

“Every woman must be both physically and mentally strong. Parents, instead of only advising girls to stay safe, must also inculcate values of respect towards women among boys. This alone can prevent a majority of crimes in society,” she said.

She pointed out that in the changing social scenario ensuring women’s safety cannot be left solely to law enforcement agencies.

“Learning self-defence techniques has become essential for women to tackle challenging situations,” she added and urged them to make use of emergency services such as the police helpline number 112 when required.

Superintendent of Police S. Jahnavi, who also addressed the gathering, said that empowerment does not mean unrestrained freedom but the ability to distinguish right from wrong and act responsibly.

She advised students to make the best use of the opportunities provided to them and become responsible citizens.

Highlighting emerging challenges, she said that while there is no shortage of information today, young people must be cautious in choosing what is beneficial for their lives.

“Just as it is important to learn self-defence against physical violence, it is equally necessary to guard oneself against psychological harm caused by the negative influence of social media,” she said.

Earlier, Women Empowerment Cell coordinator Sushma Hoogar, in her introductory remarks, observed that while women have progressed significantly and assumed greater responsibilities in society, incidents of violence remain a concern.

Citing National Crime Records Bureau data, she noted that a significant percentage of women still feel unsafe at home and workplaces underlining the need for collective efforts towards genuine empowerment.

She said that empowerment should not be measured by the achievements of a few individuals alone but by the overall well-being and security of ordinary women.

“Society is like a bird with two wings, men and women, and only when both are strong can society progress,” she added.

The programme was attended by management committee president N. Mallikarjun Metri, principal Mahantesh N. Aradhyamath, Kirloskar AV Club joint secretary Bhagya, advocate Anita and others.