KATHMANDU, Nov 25: President Ram Chandra Paudel has said a massive awareness campaign is essential to end violence against women and girls.

It is worrying that women have been victims of violence and discrimination also because of ill customs. Chhaupadi, dowry, tilak are social ills and malpractices which have put women at the receiving end, President Paudel said, underscoring the need to implement law effectively to end such ills and ensure equality.

Giving a message of best wishes on the occasion of 16-Day Activism and the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women today (Nov 25), President Paudel wished peace, prosperity and happiness to all Nepali sisters.

He reminded that Nepal's constitution has ensured proportional, inclusive and participatory system, but the existing discrimination against women is sheer blight.

President Paudel expressed belief that the Day would inspire the government bodies, social organizations, civil society, right defenders and media to work for women's rights and end violence and discrimination against them.

He underscored the need for punishment to those involved in violence against women with effective enforcement of law. The President also urged all sides to financially empower women to wipe out discriminations.

Time to empower women: Vice President Yadav

Similarly, giving the best wishes message, Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav said it is imperative to launch massive public awareness to end violence against women and empower them financially.

Vice President Yadav said educating women helps making women self-reliant.

He wished peace, prosperity and happiness to all women living in the country and abroad on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women today.

Concerted efforts essential to end violence against women: PM Dahal

Moreover, extending best wishes to all sisters and brothers on the occasion of 16-day activism against gender based violence (GBV), Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has urged all bodies concerned—individuals, families, communities- to be sensitive and make concerted efforts to eliminate violence against women.

Prime Minister Dahal requested all to move ahead with sensitivity and importance by internalizing and institutionalizing legal and institutional arrangements against GBV in all three-tier governments.  

The 16-Day of activism against GBV is launched from November 25 to December 10 every year to stress the concept of ending all sorts of violence against women so that an equitable society could be built.

"GBV is not only the problem of individuals or families, but it is also connected to the political system, social structure and policies that the country has adopted. We can end all types of violence against women only when meaningful and respectful presence and participation of women in all sectors is ensured", he mentioned.

He, however, said only government initiative was not adequate to build a GBV-free society.

 
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