New Delhi, Feb 14:
The YWCA of Delhi marked National Women’s Day with a compelling program centered on the theme “Rights, Resistance, and Reform,” honoring the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, the iconic poetess, freedom fighter, and “Nightingale of India.” Held at Constantia Hall, New Delhi. The event in collaboration with PASI drew a diverse audience to foster dialogue, awareness, and action on women’s rights and societal transformation.
As the esteemed Special Guest and Chief Guest, Mrs. Parul Singh, President of the Delhi Paralympic Committee (also known as Divyang Para Sports Association of Delhi), brought a powerful perspective on inclusion and resilience. Addressing the gathering, she emphasized the critical role of reforms in creating equitable opportunities for all women, particularly those with disabilities. “True empowerment begins when we dismantle barriers—not just in words, but through inclusive policies and unwavering resistance to inequality. As we honor Sarojini Naidu’s legacy, let us commit to reforms that lift every woman, ensuring no one is left behind in the pursuit of rights and justice,” said Mrs. Parul Singh.
The highlight of the program was an engaging panel discussion featuring distinguished experts: Dr. Divya Tanwar, Ms. Nirmala, and Advocate Ms. Neha Saluja. The panel delved into pressing issues of gender equality, resistance against systemic challenges, and pathways for meaningful reform, sparking insightful exchanges among participants.
Dr. Divya Tanwar, a renowned advocate for women’s health and education, shared, “Rights are not granted; they are claimed through collective resistance. On this National Women’s Day, we must amplify the voices of marginalized women, turning reflection into revolutionary action for a reformed society.”
Ms. Nirmala, a veteran social worker dedicated to community upliftment, added, “Resistance is the spark of reform. From Sarojini Naidu’s poetic defiance to today’s grassroots movements, women have always led the charge. Let us channel this spirit to build communities where every woman’s rights are non-negotiable.”
Advocate Ms. Neha Saluja, a legal expert specializing in gender justice, remarked, “Legal reforms are the backbone of lasting change, but they thrive only with societal resistance to outdated norms. This event reminds us that women’s rights are human rights—fought for, won, and fiercely protected.”
Complementing the discussion, the event included an interactive quiz to test and deepen knowledge on women’s history and contemporary issues, alongside a riveting Nukkad Natak (street play) that vividly portrayed stories of empowerment, struggle, and triumph. These activities not only educated but also inspired attendees to actively engage in promoting social change.