Leh, November 25 (Scoop News)- As part of the nationwide initiative to promote equal rights and opportunities for all genders, a programme under the National Campaign for Gender Equality was organized today at Conference hall of DC office leh in the presence of ADC Leh. The campaign will run from November 25 to December 23, 2025.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Asiya Tabaisum, District Programme Manager, LRLM Leh, who welcomed the officers and members of various NGOs. She also gave a brief introduction to the Nayi Chetna 4.0 Campaign, explaining that the fourth edition began on November 25 and focuses on the theme “Women Leading the Way: Economic Empowerment for Inclusive Growth towards a Viksit Grameen Bharat.” She highlighted that Nayi Chetna aims to foster a Jan Andolan (People’s Movement) against gender-based discrimination through community-led action and year-round engagement.
Following the introduction, Wasem Aleram, District Mission Manager (LRLM), administered a pledge on gender equality. A short video was also screened, showcasing women’s contributions to economic development and their role as key drivers of progress.
Speaking during the meeting, Tsering Nordon stated that domestic violence remains a major barrier to strengthening women, and emphasised the urgent need to create awareness about the trauma experienced by survivors. She highlighted that many dependent women and housewives continue to suffer due to fear, social pressure, and a lack of access to proper support systems. She further informed that support centres are being established to assist women—particularly single mothers and those facing abandonment—where they can receive counselling, guidance, and legal assistance.
ADC Leh, Ghulam Mohammad (JKAS), interacted with officers and enquired about the types of violence commonly reported in Leh and the mechanisms used to handle such cases. He also asked about the role of the police in addressing gender-based violence. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and shared examples of how women contribute to community growth and economic development. The ADC expressed concern over increasing cases, noting 123 reported cases related to domestic violence, abandonment of wives and children, and situations where victims are forced into compromise.
It was also pointed out that there is only one Violence Response Unit (VRU) currently functioning in the district, which requires further strengthening to effectively handle cases of violence against women. The meeting stressed the importance of self-organisation and women’s empowerment as key steps in addressing ongoing neglect of women within families and the wider community.
On the occasion, Tsering Angchok from District Court Leh explained various legal provisions and benefits available to women. He highlighted services provided under LADC, which offers free legal representation to women in cases related to victim compensation and domestic violence. He also spoke about the PLB and other legal safeguards available for both men and women.
The event concluded with a collective call to strengthen awareness, enhance support systems, and work together toward building a society grounded in equality, dignity, and safety for all genders.
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