International Women's Day is celebrated every year to celebrate the achievements of women around the world and to motivate and inspire women's groups to achieve their rights. There are years of tearful struggle and resistance by many women behind the sense of freedom and equal rights that women enjoy today. Even after three-quarters of a century of independence, it cannot be said that all women in India have achieved complete freedom and respect as individuals. However, it can be said without a doubt that they are moving forward on the path of light compared to the dark times of old. No educated and self-employed woman today would accept the conservative view that women are only second-class citizens in the shadow of male society.

The female community has now gained the strength to openly say, "We also have a say in the decisions of our lives" and to stand firm to achieve it. Every year, March 8 is celebrated as International Women's Day. On March 8, 1908, thousands of women who worked in textile mills organized a huge rally in New York, USA. These women raised their voices against the practice of working longer hours but receiving lower wages than men. Subsequently, in several stages, male-centric governments and industrial systems around the world had to grant them their fair rights.

Women in Kerala have made great strides and steps in the fields of education, society, culture and art. However, not only can it not be said that violence and exploitation against women have completely disappeared here, but it is also doubtful that they are increasing. It is sad that the old mindset of mocking and belittling the protests led by women is still being expressed through the words of some male leaders. On this Women's Day too, the ASHA workers are protesting in front of the Secretariat. Instead of agreeing to their protest by announcing more benefits, some leaders of major political parties are trying to criticize and ridicule them. It is still a matter of concern how many more Women's Days will have to pass before this attitude changes!

A few days before this Women's Day, an educated and healthy woman, holding two dear girls close, jumped in front of a train near Kottayam and died. The situation of not knowing about the plight of such women only because they did not commit suicide needs to change. The government should create a place where such women, who are stuck at a dead end, can approach. A permanent system should be established in every district collectorate. This is necessary so that no other woman faces such a fate.