Women are strong and capable of handling any profession in society alongside men. However, we must recognize that they are still often denied the positions and status they rightfully deserve. Women must also realize that they are not receiving representation proportional to their numbers in the legislature, the cabinet, and other administrative sectors, and they should strive to attain the positions and recognition they deserve, said Mrs. Elizabeth Assisi, Chairperson of the Kerala State Tailoring Workers Welfare Fund Board. She also pointed out that, despite women proving their abilities in every field, the fact that Kerala has not had a woman Chief Minister even after so many years since the formation of the state is an example of how women are still not given equal importance. She was delivering the keynote address at a felicitation meeting organized by Karunya Sangha Vedi, Kochi in connection with International Women’s Day.

The felicitation meeting was inaugurated by Puthuppally MLA Mr. Chandy Oommen. In his inaugural address, he said that more strong women like Indira Gandhi should continue to rise from society. At a time when even constructing a single house is a great struggle, Sister Lissy Chakkalakkal, who took the lead in building and providing 214 houses for the underprivileged in society, was honored with the “Sthree Ratna Award 2026” of Karunya Sangha Vedi. Mr. P. Mohandas, former Judicial Member of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission and former District Judge, presented the award. Sister Philimin Mathew, who is retiring from service, and women activists were also honored at the function.

The meeting was presided over by Mrs. T. P. Sophia, Vice President of Karunya Sangha Vedi. Division Councillor Mr. Sumith Joseph, Karunya Sangha Vedi Education Committee Convener Mrs. Lilly Antony, Palliative Committee Convener Mrs. Joyce Antony, Mrs. Jain T. J., Mrs. Mary Lissy M. A., Mrs. Mary Molly C. J., Mrs. Safia P. M., Mrs. Philomina Antony, and Mrs. Clara Camila also spoke at the event.