Empowering women

Having struggled hard to obtain legal means to break free from male dominance and depravity, are women today at the point of endangering the very means? It is the women belonging to the lower strata of society who need to be empowered and saved from anachronistic traditions. They should be allowed to exercise their right to education, marriage and family planning, and given an equal say in decision-making. Urban women who already enjoy these rights see gender equality in terms of western standards and have, therefore, become aggressive. There are many concerns from different quarters. Women have become not only financially independent but also begun to discover that they have the power to live on their own terms. Their tolerance level has declined. Today, we find more women taking impulsive decisions, even on minor issues and disagreements. Many urban women are also beginning to feel that marriage is not a necessity. Men and women need to realise that marriage needs space to grow into a fulfilling relationship. This will be possible only if they adopt a give and take policy. Women by nature are weak in terms of physical strength and stamina. Gender equality should aim at enabling women to grow and excel in areas which showcase their intellect and capabilities. Women's emancipation should not be seen as the freedom for them to move alone at night. Patriarchy has not always been oppressive. Today, we see many women excelling in diversified fields and this would not have been possible had it not been for their fathers' diligent and committed efforts. What is wrong in women following some norms with regard to dress? What freedom do they enjoy by dressing in a manner that provokes men? Every right is accompanied by a responsibility. It is true that men have dominated women through a process of physical and sexual abuse for centuries. This will continue till women themselves raise their voice against the atrocities perpetrated on them. Most women remain submissive and timid whereas they are stronger than men. It is for them to tap into their strength. Women themselves have the power to make or break their future. The modern Bangladeshi woman should not forget that every form of relationship calls for some give and take. Small compromises or adjustments need not be misunderstood as signs of suppression. No woman should ever suffer cruelty or harassment of any form silently. Yet, before rushing to court, let her ponder over and see if it is indeed her rights that have been trampled upon or it is just her ego that has taken a beating. Let us not for a minute forget that women still walk across a minefield. One of the most powerful tools for empowering individuals and communities is making certain that any individual who wants to receive a quality education can do so. I have encountered riotous mobs and have been hung in effigy, but my motto is: Men's rights are nothing more. Women's rights are nothing less. I shall earnestly and persistently continue to urge all women to the practical recognition of the old revolutionary maxim: Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God. Gopal Sengupta Canada Gopal Sengupta