'Despite strict laws, women struggle due to social narrow-mindedness': President Murmu at SheShakti2024

President Droupadi Murmu has said even as India has strict laws, women continue to face struggles due to the narrow mindedness in the society.

In the opening address at the Network 18’s SheShakti2024, Murmu flagged the narrow-mindedness and conservatism as two major challenges in the society.

Murmu said, “In our country, strict laws have been made regarding women’s safety. Yet, it is unfortunate that feelings of insecurity still exist. The constant struggle of women is against the social narrow-mindedness and conservatism that consider them weak.

Murmu further said that even as many changes have occurred over time, some social prejudices still remain deeply rooted and create barriers to women’s equality.

"Women's safety and integrity is of utmost importance for any nation's progress. Time has come to create public awareness about women empowerment ": President Droupadi Murmu delivers opening address at News18 #SheShakti2024#BreakingBarriers #WomenEmpowerment pic.twitter.com/Z5hZEMKKIW

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 16, 2024

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In her remarks, Murmu further said that the time has come to awaken public consciousness to respect women.

Murmu said, “The time has come for us to awaken a public consciousness where respect for women is increased and no woman feels unsafe at any time in any place.”

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‘Where have we gone wrong? What can we do to improve?’

As a society, Murmu urged the nation to think where we went wrong and how we can improve the nation for women.

Murmu said such “hard questions” need to be asked as the safety and dignity of women is crucial for the nation’s development.

“As a society, we all need to look within ourselves and ask some hard questions. Where have we gone wrong? What can we do to improve? The safety and dignity of women are crucial for the development and success of any nation. It has become essential for all of us to come together and pledge to protect the honor and dignity of the women in our country and ensure their progress,” said Murmu.

Highlighting the place of women in Indian historical traditions, Murmu said that Indians regard our birthplace as a mother and refer to the earth as a mother.

In this way, Indian soil has a tradition of holding women in the highest respect and reverence, said Murmu.

Women are the true manifestation of power and the strength of the nation lies in empowered women, said Murmu.

“Women are considered the embodiment of power in our country. Women are, in fact, the true manifestation of power. The real strength of our nation lies in the empowerment of women. Our women have always demonstrated resilience, strength, and courage, moving forward despite all obstacles,” said Murmu.

Hailing the Network 18’s SheShakti 2024 initiative, Murmu said it aims to honour women who have achieved extraordinary feats beyond the limitations of gender.

“These women have set incredible examples, breaking all boundaries, challenging discriminatory standards, and achieving tremendous success by shattering stereotypes. Your She-Shakti campaign is a part of this broader public awareness effort. My best wishes for the success of your program,” said Murmu.