Sonia Gandhi: Rapes have made us hang our heads in shame

Amid rising cases of crime against women, Congress President Sonia Gandhi today said "our heads hang in shame" due to recurring incidents of rapes and other violence against women.

Flagging concerns about female foeticide and crime against women, Gandhi exhorted women not to bow down to difficulties in future and face them with courage as the country needs them at all responsible positions.

Her remarks came as the country celebrates International Women's Day today.

"Such incidents (rapes and crime against women) are happening all over the country.Our heads hang in shame because of these rapes and crimes against women," Gandhi said at the dedication of a Women's Medical College and Convocation ceremony of Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila University here.

Noting that the Congress-led UPA government has taken several steps to protect women and empower them socially and economically, she said a bill will soon be passed to tackle crime against women.

She spoke about government's budget announcement about earmarking Rs 1,000 crore each for opening women's banks across the country and Nirbhaya Fund.

A bill has also been introduced to give share to women in parental property and to stop incidents of sexual harassment and domestic violence, she said.

Congratulating women on the occasion of Women's Day, she said, "One needs to take stronger steps to end the stigma on rape victims and other victims of crime against women.

"It is the responsibility of educated girls and everyone to raise your voice against these social ills," she said.

Gandhi noted that more women are coming into panchayats and municipalities and this is a big step towards their empowerment.

Emphasising on the need for educating girls, she said, "Giving good education to girls is a big social responsibility. If a woman is educated not only a family but the whole society is educated."

... contd.

ALSO READ

Pawar to seek special package for state

Verdict in Dec 16 rape case expected by month-end: Neeraj Kumar

China incursion: Both sides withdraw troops from Daulat Beg Oldi sector

Sonia Gandhi consults A K Antony on Pawan Bansal issue