Legal literacy awareness programme for women conducted at Melappattai Village Knowledge Centre, Pudukkottai

The Melapatti Village Knowledge Centre (VKC) facilitated by MSSRF in Pudukkottai and the District Child Welfare Committee (DCWC), organised a Legal Literacy Programme for Women and Children. The programme aimed to empower women by providing them with essential knowledge about their rights and legal provisions. The Village Panchayat President, Mr. K. Nagaraj, presided.

Ms. C. Kithika, criminal lawyer from Pudukkottai spoke about various important legal provisions pertaining to women’s rights, such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, dowry, and inheritance rights. She explained the provisions and remedies available under these laws. Ms. C. Kirthika also focused on laws concerning marriage, divorce, child custody, and maintenance such as the Child Marriage Restraint Act including the Prohibition of Child Marriage, the Juvenile Justice Act, the Protection of Children from Sexual Harassment. She highlighted how these laws have granted rights and protections to women and children.

Thiru. K. Sathasivam, Chairperson, DCWC, delivered a keynote address. He emphasized the importance of women and child rights, and the various activities being carried out by DCWC.

Thiru. A. Jenmarakini, a member of the Child Welfare Committee, and Thiru. K. Sivasubramaniyan, President of the Management Committee of Melapatti VKC, also spoke.

Certificates were distributed to 100 women (SHGs, unemployment youth and college students) who successfully completed a comprehensive 180-hours Basic Computer Literacy programme designed by the Microsoft Unlimited Potential Program (MUPP), which aims to equip women with essential digital skills to enhance their skill and employability. About 100 women participated in the programme.

Ms. T. Vimala, the field coordinator of MSSRF, welcomed the gathering, and Ms. K. Lakshmi, Knowledge Worker delivered the vote of thanks.