Womens organization rallies against corruption

BANGALORE: Do women perceive themselves as weapons against corruption? If one goes by the Women’s Convention that was organised on Wednesday morning at Town Hall, yes, they do.Gathered in hundreds, they shouted slogans against the corrupt system prevailing everywhere.Organised by Women’s Voice, an organisation that was born out of the needs of women in the Bangalore’s slums back in 1981, Women’s Convention on ‘Women Against Corruption’ was attended by women from across the city. The convention was organised to create awareness among the mass which holds the key to abolish corruption and destroy it in all levels of public life.The convention put forth some startling facts about corruption. Dr Ruth Manorama, general secretary of Women’s Voice drew attention towards the issue and cited the study ‘Transparency International’ which states that in India, more than 50 per cent of people have first-hand experience of paying bribe to get a job done in a public office.Ruth said, “Corruption is affecting the poor everywhere.Fight against patriarchy and structural violence are not personal problems. The first step towards abolishing corruption and towards feminist movement in India will be achieved when all these personal problems are brought up to the level of political problems.” Expressing her concern over increasing cases of sex-determination and female infanticide, Ruth said, “They are rampant.Moreover, lack of public toilets and unavailability of basic necessity like water are violation of human rights.” Women leaders at the convention also drew attention towards the fact that people are being forced to pay bribe for services like public distribution scheme, medical assistance and water supply.Jija Madhav Harisingh, retired IPS on the occasion said, “Even as police officer, I have been asked to pay bribe and have been offered the same as well. The sad part of the story is that Lokayuktas have also not been able to curb it.” Citing the important role that can be played by the women, Jija said, “Women as mothers, wives and teachers have big roles to play. They can inculcate good thinking and we can eradicate corruption if we hold hands together and fight against it.” The convention also had women leaders sharing their experience about corruption.