Equality will ensure a developed society, which can be achieved by gender sensitization. It is a difficult task in the male-dominated society, said Adv Rekha Barhate, a legal expert practising at Nagpur Family Court.
Adv Barhate was speaking during an awareness programme organised by RTM Nagpur University Centenary Year Celebration Committee; the Anti-sexual Exploitation Committee and the National Service Scheme of the university. VC Dr Subhash Chaudhari was in the chair. Pro-VC Dr Sanjay Dudhe, social worker Madhuri Sakulkar, Inter-disciplinary Faculty Dean Dr Prashant Kadu, NSS Director Dr Sopandev Pise, Chief of Anti-sexual Exploitation Committee Dr Shalini Lihitkar were present.
Adv Barhate said that the desired change can be achieved if the thinking and discussion on the issue begins in our own families. Quoting various examples she explained how boys and girls in a family are treated differently. Women will have to change themselves. They have been granted equal rights by the Constitution.
Sakulkar gave information about law preventing sexual exploitation at work place. The law relating to it was framed and every work place was compelled to constitute a committee to handle such complaints. The first major case was reported in 1992. Vishakha Committee was formed in 1997 and the law was enacted in 2013. She said that women had to wait for 21 years for the law against their exploitation.
Decision within 90 days after getting a complaint and action within 60 days is mandatory in the law. She appealed to women to come forward and lodge complaints in case of harassment in the workplace.
Dr Dudhe also addressed the gathering. Dr Lihitkar delivered a welcome address. Dr Amruta Indurkar conducted the proceedings. Dr Pise proposed a vote of thanks.
STREET PLAY: A street play on the theme was held at the University’s Department of Ancient Indian History and Archaeology, by the students of the department.
Head of the Department Dr Prabhat Sahu inaugurated the play. Dr Priyadarshi Khobragade was present.