Eves must become politically strong: Women's panel chief

'Elected women reps have to exercise their powers'

Women’s Commission Chairperson Manjula Manasa said women need to be strong politically.

Speaking at a programme on women’s empowerment organised at the Government First Grade College in the town on Wednesday, she said, “Women have been elected to various local bodies all over the State. In many local bodies, their husbands attend meetings and give directions to them on behalf of wives. This can be every part of the country. Women need to be politically strong. A circular has been issued in this regard.”

Manasa said the society is witnessing a fall in moral values. “Woman should excercise the powers guaranteed to her, on her own. A discussion has been held with the Education Department to impart moral education in schools. With the disappearance of joint families, the cultural and humanitarian values are being lost,”she regretted.

Replying to a question asked by a student, she said priests’ posts will be given to women in temples, if women are willing and eligible.

Manasa said 50 per cent reservation has been provided to women in Gram Panchayats and teachers’ posts. But, men are not agreeing to provide reservation in Legislature, she remarked.

To a question whether she buckles under the government’s pressure, she said she would not succumb to any kind of pressure. “I will prove that women are mentally strong,” Manasa said.