Hyderabad: Marking International Women’s Day, Mayor Gadwal R. Vijayalakshmi wants women to unite to challenge stereotypes that limit scopes for women and girls in public life. Says she in an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle: “As we have done 112 years back, we must rise in protest against all injustices, abuse and domination to find our democratic and lawful place in society. Education, self-empowerment and right for assertion should be our motto.” Excerpts from the interview:
Q: How do you assess the empowerment of women in India? How patriarchal is Indian politics?
A: Time is dynamic, not static, and we need to adjust ourselves. Otherwise, we will not be able to move forward. Social mindset has remained the same. There is a ray of hope but women are still seen as being weak and are subjected to indignities. Politics is patriarchal, men feel suppressed when women are in power.
Q: What progress have you seen on gender equality in your life and work?…