Jammu : Dr. Ambedkar Studies Centre, University of Jammu organized an awareness camp on Marginalized Women and Panchayati Raj at village Pargalta of Bock Dansal under its Field Extension Activity Programme. Prof. Abha Chauhan, Director Dr. Ambedkar Studies Centre in her address informed the participants about the role and participation of women in Panchayati Raj. She asked the women to know about the constituencies reserved for them and contest elections, so that active and responsible occupy the decision making positions in the local bodies. While talking about women’s role in Panchayati Raj in other states of India, She said women have been able to bring about change and development through their performances. Prof Abha said, besides occupying position as a member in panchayat, they should also organize themselves in the form of movement to act as pressure group.Dr. Seema Nargotra, Assistant Professor, Department of Law highlighted the relevance and utility of RTI Act in J&K. She said since the Act has now been implemented in the State people have the right to seek the information from any department by following simple procedures. She said the provisions of RTI will reduce corruption as it will give opportunity to people to get the desired information. She further said that the representation of women in panchayat will enable women to use this powerful tool for their betterment.
Mr. Ranjeet Shrama, Research Associate, Mr. Kandeel Kashyap, Field Investigator, Ms. Juhie Mohan and other research scholars interacted with participants and shared their views about the functions of Panchayats, SHG’s and RTI Act.
During interaction the participants highlighted their problems related to Health, Education, Identification of BPL’s etc. In response to this Director Dr. Ambedkar Studies centre said since their role is facilitating one they would try to bridge the gap between the Government departments and the people. The participation of the locals made the event a grand success. At last the Lunch was served to all the participants.