Shillong: “Let me tell you, in politics, it is very difficult for women to survive. We are shunted; we are put in the corner. I don’t have a designation in my party, and I am presuming it’s because I am a woman,” said Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, the lone woman minister in the Conrad Sangma cabinet, during a program celebrating 10 years of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme.
The event, organized by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer and the District Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, East Khasi Hills, in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, was held at the Meghalaya Rongali Bihu Auditorium, Dhanketi, Shillong. Dr. Lyngdoh graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Lyngdoh said, “Very often, there is a romanticization of the fact that women in Meghalaya are special and unique. Yes, we follow a unique traditional practice, but it does not take women away from oppression. Women continue to face oppression and exceptional challenges throughout their life cycles.”
She emphasized the need to move beyond the surface-level celebration of the girl child and focus on ensuring their rightful space in society. “We are celebrating a decade of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, but we are still looking at the basics. I sincerely thank those who introduced sanitary towel vending machines in institutions as this is a significant step in the right direction.”
Dr. Lyngdoh urged institutions and society to take concrete steps toward protecting and empowering women. “Whether it’s a touch or an aggressive violation, a sexual act against you must be reported to the nearest police station. Touching a woman or girl inappropriately is unacceptable and will have serious legal consequences, regardless of age.”
Highlighting the government’s shared mission with the BBBP initiative, the minister expressed gratitude toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for women’s empowerment. “I speak on behalf of my honourable Chief Minister, who shares the same commitment. Women don’t seek extraordinary treatment; we seek equal treatment. Civil society organizations, media, and community leaders all have a role to play.”
