THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even in an era when women of Indian origin have reached space as a crowning example of women empowerment, the Women's Reservation Bill, which ensures due representation, remains locked in a box, said Minister J. Chinjurani. The minister has demanded that it be implemented at least in the upcoming elections. The minister was inaugurating the 'SHEmpower' women's conclave organized by Kaumudy TV to discuss the life achievements of women who have overcome crises and made their mark in society.

The minister also said that Kaumudy TV deserves praise for organizing a conclave for women on the same day that Sunita Williams, who has proven the power of women even in space, landed on Earth.

"Despite the fact that women can hold positions ranging from primary school teachers to the Prime Minister of India, the approach of keeping women aside continues. Although women have gained freedom in many areas compared to the past, they are not getting the full powers guaranteed by the Constitution. That is why the representation of women has decreased to 15 percent in Parliament and 12 percent in the states. I was very happy when the bill to ensure 33 percent reservation was passed. It was thought that it would be implemented in the 2024 general elections, but it did not happen. Women should be given equal importance with men and kept in the mainstream," Chinjurani demanded.

Kerala Kaumudi Director Laisa Sreenivasan presided over the event. U. Pratibha MLA, former DGP Dr. B. Sandhya, Congress leader Bindu Krishna, Padmashri K. Omanakutty, Rani Mohandas, Mallika Sukumaran and others spoke. Kerala Kaumudi Associate Editor V.S. Rajesh delivered the welcome speech and Deputy Editor A.C. Reji proposed the vote of thanks.

The Minister honored Padma Shri awardee K. Omanakutty and actress Mallika Sukumaran. Mohandas College of Engineering and Technology Director Rani Mohandas, Czarina Founder Proprietor Sheela James, Meditrina Group of Hospitals CEO Dr. Manju Pratap, Mariyas Naturals MD Maria Sajan, New Rajasthan Marbles Director Beena Vishnubhaktan, Relations Media Creative Head Deepa Kamal, Rajdhani Group of Hotels Director Reshma.B. Ramesh, Saraswati Enterprises Managing Partner Aishwarya.S. Das, SP Medi Fort Directors Subbalakshmi Ashokan, M. Vanaja Subramaniam, SUT Nursing Superintendent Rachelamma Jacob Daniel, Women Entrepreneur Network Representative Shanthi, and Technopark Pratidhwani Women's Group Representative Prashanthi received awards from the Minister.