Luthra Advocates for Increased Women’s Involvement in ULB Elections

Excelsior Correspondent
BISHNAH, Jan 27: Senior National Conference leader and former MLA Bimla Luthra emphasized the vital importance of women’s participation in the upcoming Panchayat and Local Bodies elections in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting their essential roles in governance and decision-making.
She was speaking at a well-attended meeting in Palate, within the Bishnah Assembly constituency, where she stressed the necessity for increased political representation of women in Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was chaired by Rajni Devi, the Provincial working president of the Women’s Wing, JKNC, with Bimla Luthra serving as the chief guest.
Earlier, local women shared with Luthra the challenges they encounter due to the absence of sufficient welfare initiatives and essential facilities.
Bimla Luthra expressed her deep concern, noting that women make up nearly 50% of the voting population in Jammu and Kashmir, yet their representation in governance remains inadequate. She strongly condemned the previous government for failing to fulfill its promises regarding women’s welfare, lamenting the shortage of employment opportunities, healthcare services, and women-focused policies that have left many issues unresolved for women.
“The past administrations did little that was substantial for the welfare of women. However, there is renewed hope among women from the current government led by Omar Abdullah, who has consistently advocated for their rights and empowerment. We must ensure that women take an active part in governance and policy formulation,” she asserted.
The former MLA encouraged the women of the area to unite and engage actively in the democratic process to amplify their voices.
“The future of our society relies on empowered women. I urge every woman in this locality to step forward, run for elections, and take control of their rights and development,” she added.
The meeting featured several distinguished women leaders, including Joginder Kaur, Sapna Gill, and Bharti Devi, who reinforced their commitment to mobilizing women for enhanced political engagement.