The present political scenario defines a woman’s role in a stereotypical manner -- a woman is confined within the four walls of the house, gives birth to children and takes care of her family. If a woman steps out to break barriers by exploring unconventional profession, it is often considered a glorification of tradition, Communist Party of India (Marxist) Polit Bureau member Brinda Karat has said.
Pointing out that the political leaders had been mixing politics and tradition, the CPI(M) leader, at a seminar on the situation of women’s safety and security post implementation of Nirbhaya Act organised at Andhra University Dr. Ambedkar Assembly Hall on Thursday, said: “A civilized democracy should not be predefining a woman’s tradition that eventually slices down her freedom and space. Those in power should not try to propagate their ideology under the banner of ‘culture’. However, what is required for women is equal space in every domain they enter.”
She said that Indian democracy cannot exclude women from its system. It was necessary to change the present trend of politics and oppose tradition that pins down a woman’s independence beyond imagination. Quoting the recent video recording of an Indian girl passenger confronting a person harassing her on a flight, Ms. Brinda Karat said: “A decade ago, girls preferred suffering sexual abuse in silence. Today, the scenario has changed, particularly after the introduction of Nirbhaya Act. It is time for women to develop a zero tolerance against sexual abuse and stand up for their dignity.”
Call to parties
The responsibility of dealing with women’s safety was not limited to the victims, women’s organisations and some sections of society alone. It was important for political parties to take a strong position to address the increasing number of sexual assaults against children and women, Ms. Brinda Karat said.
All India Democratic Women’s Association State president Prabhavathi and CPI (M) district secretary Ch. Narasinga Rao were among those who participated.
