October 2025
Today was our meeting day, but since my daughter was sick at home, I couldn’t attend the meeting on time. I had already informed Meera and the group, that I would be a bit late. Even so, in my heart, I felt a deep concern that I might miss some important part of the discussions — but what could I do? The situation at home left me with no choice. The meeting had already started at 7:30, and by the time I managed to settle things at home and reach the venue, it was almost 8 o’clock. I didn’t tell anyone about my situation; instead, I just thought — even if I am late, I will go and learn something.
When I arrived, Meera was already conducting the meeting. Today’s topic was Women’s Rights. The discussion had begun with Human Rights — what they are and what they mean. I learned that human rights are the freedoms and dignities every person deserves — the right to live freely and with respect. And that these rights are not something anyone can take away, nor something granted as charity. Hearing that touched me deeply. Indeed, rights are not gifts to be given — they are inherent to every human being.
Then we discussed economic rights and the right to food, shelter, clothing, education, health, and employment — basic necessities that everyone deserves. Under social rights, we learned about the right to live free from discrimination, the right to marry and build a family of one’s choice — all of which fall under human rights.
After that, Meera asked, “What rights do women have?”
We shared what we knew, and she then explained that women are entitled to the following rights:
- The state shall not discriminate against women and must uphold the principle of equality between men and women.
- The prevention of trafficking, prostitution, and all forms of exploitation.
- Equal access to education and employment opportunities as men.
- Equal pay for equal work.
- Equal legal status as men.
- Equal rights to property.
Meera emphasized that we must be aware of these rights. She also shared that there are special rights granted specifically to women, such as:
- Participation: 40% of members in formation groups must be women, and either the leader or deputy leader must be a woman.
- Education: Every primary school must have at least one female teacher.
- Employment: Women can enter government service until the age of 40, whereas men are 35
- Health: Paid maternity leave during childbirth up to 90 days
- Gender-related: Female doctors should be available for women’s health checkups, and only female police officers should conduct searches of women.
These special provisions exist for women, but it is our duty to be aware of them — to raise our voices for our rights, and to speak up if we ever witness anyone’s rights being violated.
Meera also said something that struck me deeply: some people see violations happening right in front of them but pretend not to notice — and that only makes women weaker. It’s true — times have changed a lot, but still, many of us don’t even know the rights we have. And even when we do, we often hesitate to demand them. That fear, that hesitation — that’s one of the main reasons we continue to fall behind.
After signing the attendance sheet, the class came to an end. As I stepped out of the hall, I made a firm resolution in my heart — from now on, I will never step back when it comes to claiming my rights. And if I ever see anyone’s rights being violated, I will be the first one to raise my voice.