Alisha Foundation Advocates for Women’s Rights on International Women’s Day
Sudhansu (Bureau chief Southern Odisha)
Bhubaneswar, March 8: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Alisha Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to women’s dignity, respect, and rights by organizing an awareness rally and discussion forum in Bhubaneswar. The event, aimed at advocating for the rights of abused women, saw active participation from distinguished guests, social activists, and the youth.
The awareness rally was inaugurated by Mrs. Lokamudra Mohanty, former Chairperson of the Odisha Women’s Commission, and Mr. Sanjay Jena, CEO of Argus TV. Other prominent attendees included North Bhubaneswar MLA Mr. Susant Raut, renowned singer Abhin Sundar Rautaray, social worker Baijayanti Jena, and activist Jayashree Dhala. Leading the rally was the foundation’s chairperson, Annada Prabha Ray, who emphasized the need to uphold women’s dignity and status in society.
With the theme “Rights, Equality, and Empowerment for All Women and Girls,” the rally mobilized a large number of women and young men to raise awareness on gender justice. Following the rally, a discussion forum titled “Voices for Justice” brought together experts and advocates to address critical issues affecting women, such as legal delays and domestic violence.
Distinguished speakers included Dr. Subhash Chandra Mallik from LN Indtech Services, Prashant Kumar Nayak (State Coordinator, Youth Morcha), Odia film industry representative, Professor Prasanna Kumar Dhala (Kalinga Hospital), Smt. Snehamayi Acharya (Chairperson, All India Consumer Welfare Council Odisha), Bijaya Lakshmi Tripathy (Chairperson, All Odisha Women’s Safety Morcha), young writer and entrepreneur Bansmita Pati, Soumyakant Mahapatra (State Coordinator, NWP), and Smt. Bichitra Ratha, founder of Snigdha Kalachura Academy.
During the discussion, panelists called for urgent reforms to expedite justice for women, ensure protection from domestic violence, and secure the rights of those who have been abandoned or deceived. The event, moderated by Abhinandan Das and supported by photojournalist Bishwaranjan Mishra, served as a powerful platform for dialogue and change.
In recognition of their contributions to society, several women leaders, young social workers, and intellectuals were honored with certificates and commendations. Concluding the event, Annada Prabha Ray announced that a petition addressing women’s legal and social rights would be submitted to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging necessary policy interventions for justice and empowerment.
The Alisha Foundation’s initiative on International Women’s Day serves as a crucial step toward a more equitable society, reinforcing the call for justice, respect, and protection for all women.
