Social Justice dept to lead women`s day celebrations

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala government`s department of Social Justice would lead a two-day celebration of international women`s day in Kerala from tomorrow, Social Justice and Panchayat Minister M K Muneer has said. The celebration of women`s day in Kerala would be an effort in confidence building and positive action, the minister told reporters here yesterday. The Kerala State Women`s Development Corporation (KSWDC) would be the chief co-ordinator of the programme with the theme `The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum.` On the eve of the women`s day tomorrow, renowned dancer and social activist Mallika V Sarabhai and Swiss pianist Elizabeth Sombart will present a special performance of `Women with broken Wings,` their acclaimed international show. The artistes have dedicated the show `in memory of the billion women tortured, maimed, raped, aborted and killed across the world.` The two women would be honoured by the Social Justice department, the minister said. The `Kudumbasree` mission would hold an interaction with poet and social activist Sugathakumari on March 8. `Nirbhaya` shelter home would present a cultural show in the evening. `Abhinaya` theatre group would also their play titled `Irakalodalla Samsarikkendathu` (Not Just the Victim) at the women`s college on the day. Kerala Social Security Mission is organising a two-day free medical camp for cancer detection on March 8 and 9 as part of the women`s day. Government agencies working for the empowerment of women including KSWDC, State Women`s Commission, Kudumbasree, Gender Parks, Nirbhaya and Kerala Social Security Mission are jointly conducting the events. PTI