PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 7: Sona Devi University organised a special programme at the Vivekananda Auditorium to mark International Women’s Day.
Padma Shri awardee Chhutni Mahto attended the event as the chief guest and addressed the gathering, highlighting her lifelong struggle against superstition and social evils such as witch-hunting.
Chhutni Mahto highlights fight against witch-hunting
Speaking at the programme, Mahto said that despite being uneducated, she has devoted her life to combating the practice of branding women as “witches” and other forms of social injustice.
She shared her personal journey, recalling how she was once expelled from her own home by family members but chose to overcome hardship and continue working to support and shelter distressed women.
Mahto also urged women facing harassment or injustice to reach out to her for help. She said she regularly visits police stations to monitor cases related to witch-hunting and ensure justice for victims.
Experts speak on legal awareness and empowerment
The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Assistant Registrar Archana Singh welcomed the guests and briefed the audience about the academic courses and corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by the university.
Advocate Mamta Singh, the guest speaker, extended greetings on Women’s Day and stressed the importance of legal awareness for women.
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She spoke about gender equality, equal pay for equal work, and workplace safety laws for women. She also highlighted constitutional rights and key legislations such as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, Dowry Prohibition Act, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act.
She said education should not be limited to obtaining degrees but must empower women with knowledge and awareness.
Discussion on women’s status in society
Former Head of the Sanskrit Department at Kolhan University, Ragini Bhushan, reflected on the cultural and philosophical position of women in Indian traditions.
Referring to the concept of Ardhanarishvara and ancient Vedic traditions, she said women once held a highly respected position in society.
She explained philosophical concepts from the Vedas and spoke about family values and freedom of choice in marriage. Bhushan added that while women historically enjoyed respect, social evils emerged over time, making protective measures necessary.
Trustee of the university and former Head of the Botany Department at Kolhan University, Nirmala Shukla, congratulated women who have struggled for their rights.
She emphasised that society should move beyond discussions on equality and ensure equal opportunities for women. Highlighting the importance of education, she urged women to develop their abilities and contribute positively to society.
She also called upon men to adopt nurturing qualities and support social transformation.
University Chancellor Prabhakar Singh thanked the distinguished guests and conveyed greetings on International Women’s Day.
He observed that even after nearly seventy-five years of independence, the status of women has not fully regained the dignity it once held in society.
Singh praised Chhutni Mahto for her tireless work against social evils and said society must stand firmly with her efforts to eradicate witch-hunting and exploitation.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Registrar Nit Nayana, followed by the national anthem led by Sangeeta Choudhary.