Women are not weak: Kiran Bedi

Bangalore: Former IPS officer turned social activist Kiran Bedi has said that with increasing incidents of violence against women it is essential for them to be aware of their rights and fight for it.

Addressing women students at a seminar on the topic “Women empowerment” at Jain University here on Friday, she said, "It is important that you should stand up and fight for your rights. For that, you first need to understand what your rights are, as an individual and as a woman. There is a great need to create awareness among women on their rights. Also, the society needs to understand that women are not weak.”

She exhorted women students to develop an independent identity of their own in the society by taking up an active role in various facets of life. "Empowerment begins with clarity in life which is then followed by personal management plan and one’s sense of security. Therefore, it is important for women to be independent. Keeping oneself updated with the latest in business and general issues helps in intellectual stimulation, which will lead to both professional and personal growth.

"Women face many challenges at various stages of their life both on personal and professional fronts. Have a clear vision of your future and pursue your dreams. Realise your true potential and find out the means to leverage them and you will be able to overcome all the problems that come in your way,” she said. She also stressed on the importance of women entrepreneurship as a means to empower them.

Referring to the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Preve­ntion, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, she opined that students, right from the beginning of their career should learn about the laws enabling them to fight for justice and gender equality in the society.