Awareness a must to curb crime against women: CM

LUCKNOW: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath said here on Sunday that not only was awareness among people necessary to curb crime against women but the latter themselves needed to speak out about atrocities on them.

Addressing an international media conference organized by City Montessori School at CMS Kanpur Road auditorium on ‘Curbing Gender Violence : Role of Media, Society and School’, here, Yogi said the Indian tradition was of Yog, not bhog (worldly pleasures).

The chief minister said, “Violence against women is a burning problem. Around six months back I organised a meeting of senior police officials on this issue. I asked them reasons behind crime against women and what they told me was an eye opener. They told me most of crimes against women were committed by close family members and due to lack of awareness the women did not report the matter. However, the state has taken some steps like 1090 and women helpline 181 but most of the women are unaware about them. They don’t even know the proper use of Dial 100 service.”

Yogi said, “As a mother is a child’s first teacher, every mother should teach girls to not tolerate violence of any kind. Schools also have a role in creating awareness about crime against women. After that, the media is the most powerful tool to sensitise women about speaking up and not tolerating nonsense.”

He said, “The government cannot do everything without support from the society. if given a chance, women can do wonders. This year too, out of 147 toppers 99 were girls.” .

“Crime against women can be controlled only when the society joins hand against criminals. It would be better if media started a campaign against this,” he said.

Minister, women and family welfare, Rita Bahuguna Joshi said, “Media is the most powerful and potent weapon to stop violence against women today, as it can spread awareness.”

Minister of state (independent charge), women and family welfare, Swati Singh ; said , “Education is necessary for girls to become secure. The media plays a significant role in spreading positive thoughts in society, so it should act in a responsible manner, showing incidents in the correct perspective without any prejudice.”

Mayor Sanyukta Bhatia said, “Women must be empowered to take up important positions and make decisions that bring about positive changes in society.”