In a seminar on July 24 on “protection of women and law” organized by Utkal Mahila Samti, Bhubaneswar, a premier women organization of the State, on Tuesday, Director of Census in Orissa Dr. Bishnupad Sethi. IAS, came out with a startling fact that when women population is safe and in the rise, survey shows its decline in the more educated districts.
Poet Bishnupada Sethi, I.A.S. was the Chief Guest, and Dr. Mangala Prasad Mohanty, Dr. Madhumita Parida, and Dr Smita Kanunho were the guests of honor along with well known media person Prasanta Patnauiik.
Speaking as the Chief Guest Mr Sathi cited the latest population survey that revealed that the women population has been reduced in districts of Nayagarh and Khurda which have high percentage of literacy, but in contrast, the tribal districts have recorded higher women population.
Dr Mangala Prasad Mohanty, Secretary of Indian Red Crosss Society, Orissa branch, legal expert Dr Madhumita Parida and Dr. Smita Kanungo highlighted the rights of the women and legal provisions to protect them.
Journalist Prasanta Patnaik said that the women who become the victim of atrocities are not getting adequate protection from the Government and the Society. Citing the example of Paipili gang rape victim Babina Behera who sacrificed her life to protect her friend who was a victim of gang rape was not given adequate recognition for her brave act by the Governments, both in the State and in the Centre when it was no less noteworthy than that of Delhi victim Nirvaya who was honored by the USA and Indian Government.
The seminar was followed by a colorful entertainment program. Famous Mahari dance by Chndrika Rana and her party, Odissi by Bibek Mohanty and Padmini Padhi, Odissi also by Kumari Rajlaxmi and Lipsa Panda, Sambalpuri by members of UMS artists. and modern dance by child artist Nupur Mohanty kept the audince spell nound for hours.
Eminent film and TV artist Madhumita Mohanty and social activist Asmita Patnaik from Raj Khariar were felicitated for their commendable activities .
The Samiti extended financial help for treatment of Smt Ka. Laxmi and Miss Swati Sahu for their treatment.
Advocate Arati Patnaik president of Utkal Mahila Samiti, presided over the function when Secretary Chandraprva Patnaik conducted the seminar. Chinmayee Sarangi, Ediotr, Bhija Mati and Puspaja Patnaik of Associated Media Foundation contributed to success of the event.