Implementing total prohibition in Tamil Nadu might be a distant dream in reality. But on Saturday, the announcement of total prohibition in the State in the “Governor’s address” at the second edition of the ‘model’ Tamil Nadu Women State Assembly at Fatima College received a thumping applause from the 234 MLAs.
“Free flow of liquor was one of the main reasons for domestic abuse. In several cases, women were either abandoned or divorced when they opposed the drinking habits of their spouses,” said M. Velammal, a social worker from Virudhunagar, who took part at the model assembly session.
As many as 200 women from rural pockets of different districts and nearly 40 college students participate in the two-day model assembly organised by Initiatives: Women in Development (IWID).
Jyotsna Chatterji, president of Joint Women Programme, India, said it was high time to ponder over women’s achievements in the 68 years after attaining independence.
“A majority of the women in villages are ignorant of laws and their rights. Activities such as role play will help women understand that the Assembly is not a place where only men can speak,” she said.
Delivering a special address, Harsimran Preet Sidhu, Principal of Guru Nanak Khalsa Girls’ College, Punjab, said, “Break the glass ceiling that women cannot reach higher pedestals of policy making.”
The Friday’s session saw the Assembly members discussing key issues such as protection of child rights, fishermen issue and problems in agriculture.
R. Nagavalli, who works for a social welfare organisation at Usilampatti, said the programme gave them a better understanding of the Assembly proceedings and various legislations.
According to K. Fatima Mary, Principal of Fatima College, the programme was aimed at helping women know social issues and their responsibilities.
“The training gave us confidence to question the wrongs in society and to understand what should be done for the betterment of people. Closing down TASMAC outlets and giving enough attention for the safety of children are of paramount importance,” said A. Perumayee, a social worker from Usilampatti.
Neelavalli, executive director of IWID, and Henri Tiphange, executive director of People’s Watch, also spoke.
