Irregular periods with scanty flow were experienced by 76% of women. Nearly half of women resort to using fewer than 5 pads throughout their entire period cycle; whereas a healthy menstrual flow requires the use of a minimum of 10 to 12 pads per cycle…reports Asian Lite News
In a recent groundbreaking endeavour, Gynoveda.com, the World’s first Ayurveda FemTech brand, conducted India’s largest Period Health Study. The survey saw responses from over 3 lakh women across the country in the age bracket of 18 to 45 years, who were categorised into 3 groups based on prevalence, severity and bodily changes. The first group included women with Menstrual Disorders, which constituted a staggering 70% of total respondents. The second group noted women with Vaginal Disorders (26%) who had challenges concerning their vaginal well-being, which encompassed discomfort, infections, or irregularities affecting their overall vaginal health and quality of life. The third group included a total of 4% of the respondents who face no disorders.
The Pan India survey highlights findings based on age and incidence of PCOS, its prevalence, other disorders including irregular periods, pain severity during periods, and the observed bodily changes faced among the respondents.
Deep Diving into the key findings from the report:
Age Group and Incidences of PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) isn’t bound by age — it’s a disorder that affects women across their journey. As per the survey, 60% of women in the age group of 25 to 34 have PCOS. What came out very glaringly was that 51% of women in the less than 24 yrs age group have PCOS. However, what makes this more worrisome is the fact that PCOS affects women’s fertility to a great extent. As per detailed research by the National Institute of Health (Government of India), the prevalence of infertility in women with PCOS varies between 70% to 80%.
Prevalence of PCOS and Other Hormonal Disorders
PCOS is not the only gynaecological disorder wreaking havoc on the women of our country; the data suggests that whilst 54% of women suffered from PCOS, the second leading menstrual disorder is PID, affecting 17% of the female population. Furthermore, 9% suffered from Candidiasis, 5% from Fibroid & 1% from Endometrial Hyperplasia.
Irregularity and Pain Severity During Periods
When surveyed regarding pain during the menstrual cycle, over 83% of Indian women have periods that are painful, which compels them to consume painkillers every month. 58% complained about mild and bearable pain, 25% complained about severe pain and only 17% reported no pain during the course of their periods.
Irregular periods with scanty flow were experienced by 76% of women. Nearly half of women resort to using fewer than 5 pads throughout their entire period cycle; whereas a healthy menstrual flow requires the use of a minimum of 10 to 12 pads per cycle.
Major Body Changes Faced by Women with PCOS
While dealing with PCOS, women also go through major body issues. Excessive weight gain was observed in 60% of women, closely followed by facial hair growth (Hirsutism) noted to be in 59% of women. Skin issues like Acne were observed in 55% of the women whereas pigmentation and other hormonal skin issues were seen in 51% of respondents. Due to certain defined health and beauty standards in society, these issues become a cause of mental and emotional distress in them.
Rachana Gupta, Co-founder at Gynoveda, who led the research opines, “The strategically designed period test complemented by the insights from doctors, customers, and respondents ensures accuracy and efficacy. By utilising the insights from this test and combining with Ayurvedic formulations and doctor support, Gynoveda has remarkably impacted over 200,000 lives in just 3 years since its inception and aims to continue the exceptional community work.”
Dr Aarati Patil, Chief Ayurveda Gynecologist at Gynoveda, shares that, “Ayurveda considers PCOS as Kapha disorder. Faulty diet and lifestyle habits like lack of exercise, day sleeping, including more sugar, fast food, junk food, and packaged food in the diet lead to excessive Kapha production. Excessive kapha affects digestion and poor digestion gives rise to AMA which can be considered as sticky toxins that block the channels in the ovary. These blockages affect the egg growth and that is how PCOS pathology starts as per Ayurveda.”
At the heart of Gynoveda’s mission lies the empowerment of women, embarking on a transformative journey to combat PCOS. This pivotal mission embarks with an intricate exploration into the multifaceted challenges these women encounter, illuminating a path toward comprehensive well-being. Guided by symptom mapping, Gynoveda ushers in a paradigm shift, steering away from conventional norms towards sustainable, nature-inspired period health.
The event’s agenda encompassed an array of meaningful activities, including a super specialty medical screening camp, health awareness sessions, and basic life support training…reports Asian Lite News
Emirati Aster Volunteers working with Aster DM Healthcare stepped forward to conduct a health and wellness programme for 50 underprivileged women supported by Emirates Red Crescent. The event named “Noor – Dreams Empowered” was held at Al Mankhool Library and recognized the indomitable spirit of women who have triumphed over adversities to carve out remarkable paths for themselves. The event was inaugurated by a distinguished panel, including Ms. Afra Obaid Al Rumaithi, from Dubai Police; Dr. Juwairia Al Ali, representing Rashid Hospital; Dr. Shanila Laiju, Chief Executive Officer of Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centers in the UAE; and Ms. Meaad Ali, a Volunteer from the UAE Red Crescent.
The event’s agenda encompassed an array of meaningful activities, including a super specialty medical screening camp, health awareness sessions, and basic life support training. These sessions were aimed at equipping participants with essential health insights and life-saving skills, thereby further strengthening their ability to navigate life’s challenges.
In addition to the health-focused activities, the event was filled with cultural activities that provided a platform for women to express their creativity and celebrate their diverse cultural heritage. An entertainment session added a joyful touch to the proceedings, offering moments of relaxation and camaraderie.
Ms. Alisha Moopen, Deputy Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare, commented on the significance of the event, saying, “Emirati Women’s Day is a momentous occasion to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of women from UAE who have defied odds and set examples for others to follow. As such it is wonderful to see our Emirati Asterian workforce take the lead in celebrating strength and determination and empowering other women in need to take better care of their own health and well-being. As an organization, we are committed to enable their career path by providing the right opportunities for growth and development.”
Aster DM Healthcare is organizing an inspirational session for their female Emirati workforce by bringing on board Ms. Salama Mohammed – Entrepreneur and Content Creator and Ms. Salma Al Baloushi – First Emirati Female First Officer at Etihad Airways on 28th August – Emirati Women’s Day. Under the theme ‘Together for a Better Tomorrow’, the event would see these inspirational leaders joined by Ms. Alisha Moopen and Ms. Fara Siddiqi – Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Aster DM Healthcare, sharing their life’s journey and important learnings to help shape the Asterian leaders of tomorrow.
About Aster Volunteers, the global CSR programme of Aster DM Healthcare
Aster Volunteers programme, the global corporate social responsibility initiative of Aster DM Healthcare, was launched on occasion of the company’s 30th anniversary in 2017 and provides a platform which bridges the gap between people who would like to help with those in need. Driven by Aster DM Foundation, through various initiatives, the programme has been able to impact 4.48 million+ lives across geographies. Aster Volunteers have been able to treat close to a million individuals through mobile medical camps; 230,569 people have benefitted from Basic Life Support (BLS) awareness trainings and 53,426 free surgeries as well as clinical investigations were conducted; supported with the recruitment of 142 differently abled people of determination and treated 813,618 people through medical camps. The aid programme in Somaliland, Jordan, Bangladesh, Yemen and India has benefitted 304,380 people.
Aster Volunteers have also been at the forefront of the battle against COVID – 19 and has impacted 2 million+ lives through various social activities.
Fowler was excellent throughout but had a luckless night in front of the goal, with Peyraud-Magnin producing a couple of smart stops to keep the youngster out…reports Asian Lite News
Courtney Vine scored the decisive penalty as hosts Australia made history in the FIFA Women’s World Cup on Saturday by storming into their maiden semifinals, prevailing over France via penalties in a quarterfinal clash here.
After holding the European giants goalless in regulation time, the Matildas came out victorious 7-6 in the penalty shoot-out.
Vine converted the decisive penalty in a heart-stopping shootout and clinched a tense and hard-earned victory, thus making the Matildas the first Aussie team, male or female to reach the semifinals of a FIFA World Cup.
Though they were second-best for the bulk of the match, France began brightly and should have moved in front inside 13 minutes, but Maelle Lakrar failed from inside the six-yard box, scooping the ball over from the closest of ranges.
Les Bleues had a miraculous escape late in the first half when Australia’s Mary Fowler fired towards an apparently open goal with goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin stranded and out of position. Elisa de Almeida came to France’s rescue, though, with a magnificent goal-line clearance, diverting the ball behind for a corner.
Fowler was excellent throughout but had a luckless night in front of the goal, with Peyraud-Magnin producing a couple of smart stops to keep the youngster out.
Australia turned to the seasoned Sam Kerr in search of a goal ten minutes into the second half and the Matildas skipper nearly made an immediate impact, setting up Hayley Raso for a curling left-foot shot that the France keeper kept out.
The hosts had their hearts in their mouths in extra time when Alanna Kennedy headed a corner into her own net. But the French celebrations were quickly curtailed as referee Maria Carvajal whistled immediately, having spotted a Wendie Renard shirt-tug while the ball was in the air.
After a wonder save from Australia Mackenzie Arnold to deny Vicki Becho, the match went into penalties.
Herve Renard had introduced Solene Durand seconds beforehand and the substitute keeper, making her first competitive start, did step up with impressive saves from Steph Catley and Clare Hunt.
But Arnold also produced some heroics of her own, and when Vicki Becho hit the post, Vine was able to step up and side-foot the Matildas into the last four and spark wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands.
In the semifinals, Australia will take on the winner of the match between England and Colombia.
The Taliban swept back into power two years ago this month, as western forces and diplomats hastily withdrew…reports Asian Lite News
Former prime minister Gordon Brown has called on the International Criminal Court to prosecute the Taliban for crimes against humanity over the “systematic brutalisation of women and girls” in Afghanistan
Brown also urged the UK government and its allies to impose sanctions on regime officials responsible for the near-total exclusion of women and girls from education and the workplace.
The Taliban swept back into power two years ago this month, as western forces and diplomats hastily withdrew.
Their initial promises of a more moderate rule than that between 1996 and 2001, during which they were unrecognised by most of the outside world, has proved hollow.
The triumph of hardliners within the Taliban movement meant girls were excluded first from secondary school then from all education. Women were barred from working for aid organisations, prompting most to suspend operations there.
The Taliban had already insisted on segregated aid distributions, so without female workers Afghan women could no longer be helped. Last month there was a rare protest by Afghan women in Kabul after the Taliban decreed that beauty salons, one of the last public spaces open to women, be closed as “un-Islamic”.
Brown, the United Nations’ special envoy for global education, said the evidence of crimes against humanity being committed by the Taliban since their return to power was “overwhelming”.
“They’ve been excluded from education, excluded from employment, excluded from visiting public places,” he told the BBC. “It’s probably the most heinous, the most vicious, the most comprehensive abuse of human rights that’s taking place around the world today. And it is systematically being inflicted on millions of girls and women across Afghanistan. And that’s why the United Nations and others are calling it gender discrimination. Some call it gender apartheid. That’s why it’s seen as a crime against humanity — and it’s right, then, for the international criminal court, which has responsibility for dealing with crimes against humanity, to both investigate and to prosecute those people who have been responsible for this crime.”
Taliban fire shots, beat women protesters in Kabul.
Brown voiced support for sanctions against the Taliban as an entity, which have not been imposed since the takeover. “What we need is a prosecution,” he said. “But we also need sanctions. I’m urging the UK government to sanction the individuals responsible for this policy. The European Union has done it, but America and others can do it.”
Only financial sanctions relating to some Taliban leaders have remained in force since 1999. A 2021 resolution by the UN security council allowed for the provision of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan without breaking international law on sanctions.
Brown said he was shocked that there is “so little international pressure on the regime”, suggesting that the pressure of a potential prosecution could force the Taliban to rethink its approach. He also urged leaders and clerics from Muslim-majority countries to help persuade the Taliban that “Islam is a religion that values women and girls” and denounce the misuse of Islam as a means to deny them rights.
The brand was founded by Deepa in 2015. It aims to make luxury designer clothing accessible at affordable price points…reports Asian Lite News
There’s good news for ladies out there. Popular fashion brand Encrustd will now be exclusively available on AJIO. As per a statement, Encrustd, the brainchild of Deepa Chikarmane, represents “elevated international clothing that’s beautifully designed with the best fabrics, features fine craftsmanship, and is great value for money.”
The brand was founded by Deepa in 2015. It aims to make luxury designer clothing accessible at affordable price points.
“Encrustd is not just another fashion brand; it’s a force to be reckoned with. Our commitment to craftsmanship sets us apart, ensuring that each piece is meticulously crafted to perfection, blending the finest Indian artistry with the hottest western trends. We believe in empowering individuals to embrace their unique style and make bold statements,” Deepa Chikarmane, Founder, Encrustd, said.
“Our commitment to craftsmanship sets us apart, ensuring that each piece is meticulously crafted to perfection, blending the finest Indian artistry with the hottest Western trends. We believe in empowering individuals to embrace their unique style and make bold statements,” she added.
Earlier this year, Encrustd unveiled its Mon Soleil Spring ‘23 collection which combines a fresh take on spring fashion with luxurious, flowy fabrics, hand-crocheted tops and dainty floral prints. With the new season approaching, the brand is planning to launch a dazzling new vacation-inspired collection soon.
Vineeth Nair, CEO, AJIO, said, “Encrustd embodies modern women – confident, elegant and ready to take on the world with style. The brand is loved by customers for its elevated quality designs and fine craftsmanship that transcends fashion. We’re excited to add Encrustd to AJIO’s wide roster of exclusive brands, raising the style quotient for fashion conscious Indian women.” (ANI)
The involvement of Ambassador Rao Gupta highlights and advances the US government’s gender equality policy initiatives in the area and around the world…reports Asian Lite News
US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Geeta Rao Gupta is set to begin her India visit, spanning eight days, the US Department of State said.
During her India trip, Rao Gupta will visit Gujarat, Mumbai and Bengaluru. Upon her arrival, the US envoy will kickstart her Gujarat visit from August 1-4, where she will lead the US delegation to the G20 Alliance for the Empowerment and Progression of Women’s Economic Representation (G20 EMPOWER) Conference and the G20 Ministerial Conference on Women’s Empowerment hosted by the Government of India.
According to the State Department’s official release, the US delegation will also include Special Assistant to the President at the White House Gender Policy Council and Special Advisor to the National Security Council on Gender Rachel Vogelstein; U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Nancy Izzo Jackson; U.S. Consul General at U.S. Consulate General Mumbai Mike Hankey; and USAID Senior Coordinator for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in the Office of the Administrator Jamille Bigio.
The involvement of Ambassador Rao Gupta highlights and advances the US government’s gender equality policy initiatives in the area and around the world.
From there, Rao Gupta will travel to Mumbai from August 5-6 to meet members of the private sector and civil society to discuss gender equality priorities in India.
The keynote points of discussion would include ways for advancing women’s economic security by dismantling systemic barriers to women’s equitable participation in the economy, closing the gender digital divide, and preventing and responding to gender-based violence.
Ambassador Rao Gupta and Deputy Assistant Secretary Jackson will then travel to Bengaluru to deliver keynote remarks at the WEConnect International Asia Pacific Conference on August 7, the US State Department official release said.
The Ambassador will meet with women leaders and civil society organisations in Bengaluru and discuss initiatives to promote women’s rights and empowerment in India. (ANI)
The theme of this two-day conference is Women-Led Development: Ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and equitable global economic growth…reports Asian Lite News
As part of India’s G20 presidency, G20 Empower Summit began in Gandhinagar. Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani launched the G20 Empower Digital Inclusion platform on the occasion. Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the summit, Irani said the under India’s G20 presidency, small and medium sector entities have found place in the G20 empowerment arena for the first time.
Featuring a series of sessions, the @g20empower Summit focused on various aspects of women empowerment.
Through experiences, initiatives & stories of female leaders, the transformative role of women in driving global economic growth was highlighted. #G20India#G20Empowerpic.twitter.com/Stm24FEfcL
Stressing upon the need to increase the participation of women in the workforce, the minister said India is witnessing a revolution in financial inclusion sector and contribution of local self help groups in the Indian economy. She congratulated the Indian presidency for their new initiatives such as Digital Inclusion platform, mentorship, and several key outcomes such as Best Practices Playbook, extensive communique.
Chair of G20 empowerment, Dr. Sangita Reddy said the summit has come up with various innovative steps to increase the participation of women in the workforce.
The theme of this two-day conference is Women-Led Development: Ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and equitable global economic growth.
Tech Equity platform is aimed at bridging the gender digital divide by providing women with digital skills and knowledge. The summit will feature a series of sessions, each focusing on different aspects of women’s empowerment. A large number of delegates including global experts, policymakers and stakeholders from G20 Countries, invited countries and international organization will take part in the meet. G20 Alliance for Empowerment and Progress of Women’s Economic Progression is a private sector-led initiative under the Sherpa Track of G20
The Memorandum was signed between Eng. Abdulla Mohammad Rafie Al Dallal, Managing Director, Union Coop and Ms. Fatima Ahmed Al Abdullah, Director, Dubai Women’s Association, Al Khawaneej Branch, Dubai…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai-based retailer ‘Union Coop’ signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ‘Dubai Women’s Association’, which aims to support the ‘Our Challenges Make the Difference’ initiative.
The initiative aims to train and qualify people from the category of ‘People of Determination’, especially those with intellectual challenges, to develop their ideas and achieve their aspirations. Subsequently, it aims to integrate them into society and help them obtain suitable employment per their abilities.
The Memorandum was signed between Eng. Abdulla Mohammad Rafie Al Dallal, Managing Director, Union Coop and Ms. Fatima Ahmed Al Abdullah, Director, Dubai Women’s Association, Al Khawaneej Branch, Dubai.
For his part, Eng. Abdulla Mohammad Rafie Al Dallal said, “Through our support to Dubai Women Association, we aim to provide a suitable environment and care to the people with special needs, fulfil our commitment to support public welfare institutions and help in the development of an infrastructure that meets the aspirations of the wise leadership to reach number one position.
It is worth noting that the Union Coop collaborates and works hand in hand with numerous governmental and private institutions, as part of its strategy to serve the community.
Ms Fatima Ahmed Al Abdullah said, “The signing of the MoU came through our agreement with Union Coop, on focusing towards the ‘People of Determination’ segment, which is the core of the society. It is all about raising the man of the future with apt leadership qualities, in line with the vision of our wise government and our young nation.”
The signing ceremony was held at the Union Coop headquarters ‘Al Warqa City Mall’ in Dubai and was joined by Dr. Suhail Al Bastaki, Corporate Communication Director, Union Coop, Ms. Huda Salem Saif, Sr. Communication Section Manager at Union Coop and staff from both sides.
Urging the Central and State governments to take action on the ongoing violence in Manipur, Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that silence is not an answer…reports Asian Lite News
Terming Manipur as a sensitive issue, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said that Home Minister Amit Shah will reply during the discussion in detail in the Parliament.
“We have made it clear, respected Raj Singh and other leaders have also clarified that we are ready to discuss the issue in both houses. Manipur is a sensitive subject, a human-related subject of great sensitivity, so we want to discuss and answer the discussion in detail. There is a lot of issues that also have to be discussed. As I have said, we are ready to discuss Manipur”, Pralhad Joshi said in Lok Sabha. Speaking at the House after Opposition raised the Manipur viral video incident, Minister Joshi said that government is ready to discuss the Manipur issue adding that it was already clarified by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other leaders.
Joshi also said that the Speaker will decide on the date to discuss the Manipur issue in the House.
“We have made it clear that we are ready to discuss Manipur in both Houses. Manipur is a sensitive issue. Home Minister Amit Shah will reply to the discussion in detail. Let the Speaker decide the date of discussion”, Pralhad Joshi said.
He further added that there is a lot of issues which also need to be discussed.
“We have made it clear, respected Raj Singh and other leaders have also clarified that we are ready to discuss the issue in both houses. Manipur is a sensitive subject, a human-related subject of great sensitivity, so we want to discuss and answer the discussion in detail. There is a lot of issues that also have to be discussed. As I have said, we are ready to discuss Manipur”, he added.
Earlier, urging the Central and State governments to take action on the ongoing violence in Manipur, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that silence is not an answer.
The Chief Minister said that it is the duty and responsibility of the Central and State governments to look for immediate ways for peace restoration.
Notably, a video of two women being paraded naked by a group of men went viral a day earlier which triggered fresh controversy. However, the incident happened in May this year.
Manipur police made its first arrest in connection with the incident, as per Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh. “Last night at around 1.30 am, we arrested the main culprit,” the Manipur chief minister told ANI.
“Every man and every human being will condemn this act,” Singh said adding that they will seek for the perpetrators to get punishment “to the maximum possible extent.”
“Really shocked when I saw the video and after seeing it I inquired about the incident it happened on 4 May…but this video leaked after 40 days. I asked for mass combing ops…and last night itself we arrested one man involved,” the Manipur chief minister said.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday condemned the Manipur incident where two women being paraded naked on a road by a group of men went viral on social media.
“NCW condemns the Manipur incident. Taking suo moto cognizance. The DGP Manipur has been asked to promptly take appropriate action”, the NCW tweeted.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this morning spoke to the media ahead of the beginning of the monsoon session of parliament. He said that he is pained over the incident and said the incident is “shameful for any civil society.”
“No accused will be spared, we will never forgive those who are behind this,” the Prime Minister said.
Opposition parties give notice in Parliament
Opposition parties have given notice to discuss the ongoing violence in Manipur in both Houses of the Parliament on Friday, the second day of the Monsoon Session.
While in the Lok Sabha the Opposition parties have given notice under Rule 193, in the Rajya Sabha, the Opposition have given notice under Rule 176 and Rule 267. The government, in principle, has agreed to discuss the matter in Lok Sabha under Rule 193 and in Rajya Sabha under Rule 176.
It may be noted that Rule 193 in Lok Sabha and Rule 176 in Rajya Sabha refers to short discussion. Rule 267 in Rajya Sabha refers to suspension of business of the day.
Day one of the monsoon session of the Parliament witnessed unruly scenes amid slogneering by the opposition over Manipur violence as joint opposition sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on the issue.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took note of the video and said, “I am filled with pain and the incident is shameful for any civil society.” “No accused will be spared, we will never forgive those who are behind this,” he said.
Opposition parties gave notices to discuss the Manipur issue under Rule 193 in Lok Sabha. While, in Rajya Sabha, the Opposition gave notice under Rule 176 and Rule 267 to discuss the matter.
Under Rule 267, Rajya Sabha MPs can give a written notice to suspend all listed business and discuss an issue of importance the country is facing. (ANI)
The statement said that the horrifying ordeal suffered by these innocent women is amplified by the perpetrators’ decision to share the video, which shows the identity of the victims, on social media…reports Asian Lite News
Horrific videos of two young women being paraded naked on a road by a mob in Manipur have been widely circulated on social media, drawing widespread condemnation and demand for strictest actions.
The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) claimed that the two women were also gang-raped in a paddy field after being paraded naked on May 4, and demanded stern actions against the perpetrators.
Many political leaders, including Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Tipra Motha Party (TMP) supremo Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman severely condemned the incident and demanded strict action.
Responding to the incident, Manipur Police, in a tweet, said: “All out effort to arrest culprits as regard to the viral video of 02 (two) women paraded naked: As regard to the viral video of 02 (two) women paraded naked by unknown armed miscreants on 4th May, 2023, a case of abduction, gangrape and murder etc was registered at Nongpok Sekmai PS (Thoubal District) against unknown armed miscreants and the investigation has been started. The State Police is making all-out effort to arrest the culprits at the earliest.”
The ITLF, in a strongly-worded statement, said that two and a half months into the ethnic conflict in Manipur, evidence of atrocities committed against Kuki-Zo tribals continue to surface.
“A video which went viral on Wednesday shows a large Meitei mob parading two Kuki-Zo tribal women naked toward a paddy field to be gang-raped. The despicable scene, which happened on May 4 in Kangpokpi district, shows the men constantly molesting the helpless women, who cry and plead with their captors,” ITLF spokesman Ginza Vualzong said in a statement.
He said that the gangrape of the women in B. Phainom village happened after the village was burnt down and two men – one middle-aged and another teenager – were brutally beaten to death by the mob.
The statement said that the horrifying ordeal suffered by these innocent women is amplified by the perpetrators’ decision to share the video, which shows the identity of the victims, on social media.
The ITLF vehemently condemns the sickening act and demands that the Central and state governments, the National Commission for Women, and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes to take cognisance of the offense and take all necessary measures to bring justice to the culprits, the statement added.
Strongly condemning the incident, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted : “The pictures of sexual violence against women coming from Manipur are heart wrenching. The amount of condemnation of this horrific incident of violence against women is less. Women and children have to bear the maximum brunt of violence in the society. We must all condemn the violence in one voice while furthering the efforts for peace in Manipur. Why is the Central Government, Prime Minister sitting blindly on the violent incidents in Manipur? Do such pictures and violent incidents not disturb them ?”
Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted: “PM’s silence and inaction has led Manipur into anarchy. INDIA will not stay silent while the idea of India is being attacked in Manipur. We stand with the people of Manipur. Peace is the only way forward.”
PM’s silence and inaction has led Manipur into anarchy.
INDIA will not stay silent while the idea of India is being attacked in Manipur.
We stand with the people of Manipur. Peace is the only way forward.
TMP chief Deb Barman tweeted : “Disturbing videos emerging from Manipur about a woman belonging to a particular community being paraded naked by a mob . There is total breakdown in the relationships of the two communities there . Hate has won in Manipur.”
‘Absolutely heartbroken and appalled’
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Thursday said that he was absolutely heartbroken and appalled at the sight of two women paraded naked by a mob of men and later sexually assaulted.
Stalin in a tweet on his official handle said, “Absolutely heartbroken and appalled by the agonising violence unleashed on women in #Manipur. Where is our collective conscience ? The hate and venom are uprooting the very soul of humanity. We must stand united against such atrocities and work towards fostering a society of empathy and respect. The Union government should take all necessary steps to restore peace in Manipur.# Manipurviolence”.
Absolutely heartbroken and appalled by the agonising violence unleashed on women in #Manipur. Where is our collective conscience? The hate and venom are uprooting the very soul of humanity. We must stand united against such atrocities and work towards fostering a society of…
The dastardly act had reportedly taken place on May 4 at B Phainom village in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur.
The DMK and its allies are aiming for a clean sweep in the ensuing Lok Sabha election of 2024 and the Chief Minister has already called upon party workers and leaders to win all the 39 seats from Tamil Nadu and the lone seat from the neighbouring Puducherry.
With a disunited opposition in Tamil Nadu, Stalin is expecting to rake up maximum issues that would put the Central government in a poor light, sources said.
The DMK think tanks are of the opinion that regular bombardment against the Central government led by BJP will have its effect in Tamil Nadu which is strongly defending the entry of the saffron party into the state.
Loksabha adjourned
The Lok Sabha was adjourned till July 21 amid protests by the Congress-led opposition, which sought a discussion on Manipur violence and also Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response on the matter in the Lower House.
As soon as the Lower House convened at 2 p.m., the opposition members led by Congress, including DMK, Left and JD(U) entered the well of the House, shouting slogans “Manipur is burning!” and “PM come to the House!”
They sought Prime minister Narendra Modi’s response on Manipur violence in the Lok Sabha.
As Kirit Solanki, who was in the chair, allowed laying of papers, the opposition members raised slogans and created ruckus in the well.
Even NCP members and the lone newly elected AAP MP from Jalandhar Sushil Kumar Rinku could be seen standing near their seats, showing solidarity with other opposition members.
Parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi said that the government was ready to discuss Manipur issue in the House as and when the Speaker allots time and date. However amid continuous protests, Solanki adjourned the House for the day.
‘Incident can never be forgiven‘
Expressing his pain and anger over the Manipur incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the gruesome incident with the women in the Northeastern state is very shameful, and can never be forgiven.
“Today, my heart is filled with pain and anger. The incident of Manipur which has surfaced, for any civilised society, this is a very shameful incident,” Modi told reporters in the Parliament House Complex ahead of the beginning of the Monsoon Session, referring to the horrific video which went viral on social media, of two women being paraded naked in Manipur.
He said, “This incident is an insult for the entire nation as it has shamed 140 crore countrymen. The incident which happened with the women in Manipur can never be forgiven. I assure the countrymen that no one will be spared.”
The Prime Minister also urged the Chief Ministers of the states to further strengthen the law and order situation in their respective states.
“I urge all the CMs to further strengthen law and order situation in their respective states, especially for the protection of mother and daughter, and take action against the perpetrators,” he said.
He added, “Whether the incident is of Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Manipur or any part of the country, rising above politics, the law and order is important.”
The Opposition has been slamming the BJP since the video went viral and questioned the law and order situation in the Northeastern state.
Prime Minister Modi also said that all the political parties should make the best use of this Monsoon session.
Bollywood demands justice
The recently surfaced video of two women belonging to the Kuki-Zomi community being paraded naked and being assaulted by a mob of men, has sent shockwaves across India. Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and director Vivek Agnihotri have strongly reacted to the video, condemning the “shameful” act.
Akshay Kumar took to his Twitter and shared a note saying that he feels shaken and disgusted to see such unspeakable cruelty being meted out to the women.
He tweeted: “Shaken, disgusted to see the video of violence against women in Manipur. I hope the culprits get such a harsh punishment that no one ever thinks of doing a horrifying thing like this again.”
Vivek Agnihotri, who is known for ‘The Kashmir Files’, took to his Instagram and shared a heartfelt note saying how the nation has failed as a society.
He wrote in his Instagram post: “MANIPUR: Moplah, Direct Action Day, Noakhali, Bangladesh, Punjab, Kashmir, Bengal, Kerala, Assam, Bastar and now Manipur. Every time our innocent mothers and sisters become the ultimate victims of inhuman, barbarian acts. As a Bharatiya, as a man, as a human being, I am shattered each time. I am ashamed.”
He further mentioned that he feels guilty for being helpless in such a situation and also wrote that there is “no right to life in free India.”
He continued: “I am so guilty for my helplessness. O Manipur, I tried… I tried… but I failed. All I can do now is tell their tragic stories through my work. But it’s too late by then. We are all victims of selective and hyper- competitive electoral politics. We are victims of hyper-religion. We are victims of dangerous media. We, the people of Bharat, are victims. There is no #RightToLife in free India. And we can’t do anything about it.”
“This is not the freedom I want. This is not the kind of democracy I want. It’s worth nothing if it makes us bay for each other’s blood. We are a failed society. I am sorry, my sisters. I am sorry, my mothers. I am sorry, Bharat Mata,” he added.
Soni Razdan wrote in her Instagram Story: “I really want to know what the government is going, and why primetime news is not flooded with news about Manipur and most important of all, where is the Army?”
Kiara Advani tweeted: “The video of violence against women in Manipur is horrifying and has shaken me to the core. I pray the women get justice at the earliest. Those responsible must face the most SEVERE punishment they deserve.”
Sanjay Dutt also took to his Twitter and wrote: “The video portraying violence against women in Manipur was shocking and sickening. My utmost hope is for the culprits to be punished with the utmost severity, sending a clear message that such despicable actions will not be tolerated in any circumstance.”
Actor Riteish Deshmukh too wrote on his Twitter: “Deeply disturbed with the visuals of the atrocities against the women in Manipur… I am seething with anger… no man should go unpunished for such crime. Attack on the dignity of a woman is an attack on humanity itself (sic).”
Actor-comedian Vir Das shared a series of tweet holding the government and the officials responsible for the shameful and the delay in bringing justice to the victims.
He wrote: “When horrific incidents occur make no mistake, through the system, our leaders are IMMEDIATELY aware. When months later videos go viral, twitter is aware. If leaders only then respond, it’s to twitter, not horrific incidents. They care about online outrage, not real people.”
He continued in his tweets: “People outrage as and when they become aware or are allowed to. It takes a specific kind of creepy man to invalidate a crime against a woman by offsetting it against the comparative outrage for another crime against another woman. It’s Masterful whataboutery. Don’t fall for it.”
“Grateful to see our leadership speak up and take action for the viral people of India,” he added.
The video shows two women, one in her 20s and the other in her 40s, being made to walk naked down a road and towards a field by a mob of men. Some of the men can be seen dragging the two women towards a field and sexually assaulting them.
Though the said incident took place on May 4 as per the police, the video emerged on July 19 sparking massive outrage across the country.
