Democracy cannot be strong without respect and equal opportunity for women: PM Deuba

Kathmandu. KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said building an equitable society was not possible without ensuring women’s rights, justice and equal opportunities.

Addressing a programme organized on the occasion of the 116th International Women’s Day at Singha Durbar on Sunday, Prime Minister Karki stressed on the need of ensuring meaningful and quality participation of women.

The International Women’s Day is being celebrated in Nepal with the national resolution ‘Let’s ensure the rights, justice and opportunities of all women and girls’ with the slogan ‘Rights for All Women and Girls’.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Karki said the International Women’s Day was not only a celebration but also a day to remember the historical struggle waged for women’s rights, equality and dignity.

Describing the recently concluded election to the House of Representatives as the victory of the Nepali people, she said that the country has got constitutional outlet through the democratic process. She also expressed gratitude to the citizens, the Election Commission, the security persons, civil servants, political parties and observers for their contribution in holding the elections in a peaceful manner.

Stating that the ballot paper is a symbol of citizen’s self-respect in democracy, the Prime Minister said the people’s representatives should work responsibly keeping the people’s trust in the election.

According to her, the Constitution of Nepal has guaranteed women rights as fundamental rights while equal representation, inclusive participation and social justice have been made the basis of the state system. “The representation of women from the local level to the federal parliament has increased significantly in recent years,” she said.

However, she said that women are still not fully free from discrimination, unequal opportunities and gender-based violence. She said that the situation of women from Dalit, Madhes, Karnali and marginalized communities is even more challenging.

Stating that the State was implementing various policies and programmes to expand women’s access to education, health, employment and leadership levels, the Prime Minister underscored the need of collective efforts of all stakeholders to achieve gender equality and social justice.

Stating that democracy would be strengthened and spirit of the constitution would be implemented only if women got respect, security and equal opportunities, she called for joining hands for building a prosperous, just and equitable Nepal.