How is the Samiti different from other women'sorganisations?
The basic difference in Samiti and other women'sorganisations is that they stand for women'srights only, while the Samiti stands for patriotism. In Hindu philosophy man and woman are not treated separately. Both of them combine to constitute the family which is the basic unit or stronghold of our social structure. The Samiti gives more importance to it and also to the woman'simportant role in keeping the family intact.
What is the biggest challenge before women of the country today?
The greatest challenge before women at present is how to check the indecent presentation of women through commercial media—be it advertisements or so called family serials. The dreadful trend towards materialism, consumerism, blind following of the Western way of life, lust for easy money and disregard of honesty, chastity, ethics and morality which make the lifeline of Bharat, is totally alarming. Women should take pride in being a house (wife) maker and a mother and should give up competing with men in dress or behaviour.
What is the reason for growing crimes against women, a growing number of divorce cases and also the tendency of living separately in the society?
The reasons for growing crimes against women are lust due to change of outlook towards life, of which women are a part. Print and electronic media also produce plays and movies where women are attacked as if it is an act of male bravery. Guilty persons do not get punishment, instead they become heroes.
The percentage of divorce cases is also increasing. Mutual understanding and adjustment has ceased to exist when there is no such role model in the family. ‘Why I should take one step back? syndrome is becoming very strong. Parents also interefere too much. The family structure is getting shattered. The young couples want to live their life by themselves. They do not want to take responsibility for the elders. Elders also prefer to live separately and lead their own life. Broadness of mind, accommodativeness and adjustment by young and old as well as in male and female are important.
The tendency of living alone is growing among young boys and girls. How do you view this trend?
The tendency of living alone arises due to the mentality of not accepting responsibility. It was said that two is company, three is not. While our scriptures describe the example of ,dks?ga cgq L;ke%A] but today it has changed to ‘I am the monarch of all I survey, my right there is none to disturb? tendency. The individualistic tendency is unknowingly fostered by the elders. There was a time when anything coming in the family was for all. Now we say ‘this is yours, that is his/hers?. A sort of possessive nature develops. The discipline that encouraged ‘I have to share with others. They are my kith and kin? is fast disappearing.
How can women face the modern challenges by following the traditional Indian family values?
“Following the traditional values is something time barred, orthodox and rigid”—this is the general impression. But it must go. Pleasing manners, complex free behaviour, confident and assuring personality command respect. Even though one is free, permissive attitude should not be encouraged.
How should we face the growing Western influence in the young generation?
The growing Western influence in the young generation is really a serious matter. We have to study the reasons for it. Family atmosphere, media, free access to internet, all are responsible. Only commenting, criticising, abusing will not yield results. On the contrary, there will be a reverse reaction or revolt. The elderly, influential persons will have to interact with the young generation formally and informally and bring forth the dark side of the negative scene. The young generation to be convinced in a language that they can understand.
Reservation for women in legislatures has been a hot issue for years. But nothing has been done so far in this regard. Do you think women cannot make progress without reservaiton?
“The 33 per cent reservation for women” subject is quite pertinent, but nobody is very serious about it as it is going to affect the chances of 33 per cent males. Unless the psyche is not changed, the Bill will never be passed. One thing more, everybody wants to take political mileage out of it and is not ready to give credit to others.
The Samiti feels that this is not the only way to help women to progress. Women should come forward and develop their overall capacities so that nobody can ignore them. Of course, males and females are not competitors. Such a feeling is unhealthy. Males should also change their mentality.
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