Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar, Abdul Rashid Malik, highlighting essence of the International Women’s Day said that Kashmiri women have proven their mettle in every field.He was speaking on the program organized by District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar on the occasion of International Women’s Day, here today.The programme was attended by Secretary DLSA Srinagar, Adnan Syed, Principal Kothi Bagh Higher Secondary School, Nuzhat Bukhari, Advocate Bisma Khan, activists and students.Malik said that women are treading new paths to achieve socio-political and economic empowerment and we all should not only appreciate their endeavors but also help them in achieving equality in real sense of the term.With regards to the legal system, Malik He said that legal services act as a bridge between women and judiciary and Supreme Court is the front runner to see that women are living a peaceful life. He said that stringent laws have been made to safeguard women at home as well as at workplace.On this occasion, Secretary DLSA, Adnan Syed said though women still continue to face hurdles and challenges but it has failed to dent their resolve to bring about a social change.Principal Kothi Bagh Higher Secondary School, Nuzhat Bukhari in her welcome speech said that as a society everyone should instill respect for women in our children from the very young age so that they grow into responsible adults.She said that in order to create a gender-neutral society it is essential that besides raising empowered girls, we should sensitize boys about gender issues.On this occasion Advocate Bisma Khan highlighted the atrocities women face in the form of female infanticide, child marriage, honour killings, domestic violence and physical assault. She said that awareness regarding laws has to be created at mass level so that women are aware about her rights.The day was celebrated by organizing a series of activities including essay competition, debate, cultural program and a mushaira.