The Jammu and Kashmir State Commission for Women organized a legal awareness programme at Bandipora today.Organized in collaboration with National Commission for Women, New Delhi, the programme was presided over by Chairperson Jammu and Kashmir State Commission for Women, Nayeema Ahmad Mehjoor.District Development Commissioner (DDC) Bandipora Khursheed Ahmad Sanai, Secretary of the Commission, Aijaz Abdullah, resource persons from University of Kashmir and Legal Services Authority Bandipora, officers from the district administration, judiciary, District Social Welfare officer and scores of women and students participated in the programme.Speaking on the occasion, Nayeema said that the Commission has launched a vigorous outreach programme during which women folk are being made aware about their legal rights and the means to address their confronting issues.Addressing the women, especially girls, the Chairperson said that a strong society is built only when people interact with each other to resolve issues. She said girls need to come forward and avail the benefits from the different schemes of the government.
DDC in his speech appreciated the Commission for organising such a programme in Bandipora.Resource persons delivered lectures on various spheres of women rights and other legal aspects. The speakers threw light on the issues including the social status of women in Kashmir, gender-based violence, domestic violence act and sexual assaults. All the speakers reiterated that the women are equal to men and have achieved laurels in every field of life.District Social Welfare Officer, Altaf Hussain informed that under State Marriage Assistance Scheme, 210 girls have been provided with Rs 81.90 lakh at the rate of Rs 39,000 cash each or Rs 25000+ 5 grams gold during last financial year in the district. He said 497 such cases have been recommended to finance department for release of funds.