Karnataka Women's Commission Chairperson Advocates for Women-Centric State Budget
Nagalakshmi Choudhary, the Chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Women, has issued a strong appeal for the upcoming state budget to be tailored to support women's needs. Speaking to reporters in Mangaluru on Thursday, Choudhary emphasized that the budget, to be presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, must prioritize women's welfare across various sectors.
Key Demands for Healthcare and Infrastructure
Choudhary outlined several critical areas requiring attention. "There should be more mother and child hospitals. All hospitals should have basic facilities, and all doctors should have access to them," she stated. Additionally, she highlighted the necessity for improved infrastructure in backward districts, including women's hostels, enhanced security measures, and reliable bus facilities to ensure safety and accessibility.
Statewide Tour and Legal Awareness Initiatives
This visit marked Choudhary's 26th district tour as part of her statewide mission. "Everywhere, I raised legal awareness among women and students, collected information and problems, and submitted reports to the CM and chief secretary," she explained. She has personally discussed sensitive issues with the Chief Minister and coordinated with District Commissioners to facilitate problem resolution.
Engagement with Students and Infrastructure Inspection
Earlier, during an interaction with students at the Government First Grade Women's College in Balmatta, Choudhary commended their knowledge of women's helpline and police helpline numbers. While acknowledging the high awareness levels among Mangaluru's youth, she stressed the ongoing need for deeper legal education.
On Wednesday night, Choudhary inspected the KSRTC bus stand in the city. She noted that high-tech toilets, drinking water facilities, police patrolling, check posts, and 21 CCTV cameras were all in good condition. Her recommendations included reinstalling cradles removed from the mother-child room and displaying helpline numbers on all buses to enhance safety.
Response to Dharmasthala Mass Burial Case
Addressing the SIT probe into the Dharmasthala mass burial case, Choudhary clarified the Commission's role. "It is a fact that women were missing. We sought an investigation to know what happened to them," she said, referencing reports by VS Ugrappa and Jayamala. The Commission has formally requested a government investigation into the matter, but awaits the report's submission as the case is currently pending in court.
Choudhary's advocacy underscores a broader push for gender-sensitive policymaking in Karnataka, aiming to address systemic gaps in healthcare, safety, and legal support for women across the state.
