KATHMANDU, MARCH 31

Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has emphasized the need for further empowerment of women to foster equality and equity in society.

Speaking at a program organized by the Mangala Devi Singh Foundation in collaboration with Kathmandu Metropolis on Sunday, Deuba argued that women's empowerment could pave the way for building a society that upholds human rights and justice.

The program aimed to honor women who have contributed to the women's movement for rights and raised political and social awareness. Deuba expressed his belief that such initiatives would elevate the status of women and potentially strengthen the Nepali Congress as the largest party in upcoming elections.

He paid tribute to the late Mangaladevi Singh, acknowledging her as a pioneering leader who played a vital role in securing women's rights within the constitution.

Deuba commended Nepal's constitution for its inclusivity, proportional representation, and rights for women and marginalized communities, describing it as an excellent charter on the global stage.

During the event, party leader Prakash Man Singh also highlighted the late leader Mangala Devi Singh's contributions to the advancement of women's rights, dignity, and democracy in the country. He praised Singh's commitment to her principles.

Similarly, Joint General Secretary Mahalaxmi Upadhyay and Kathmandu District President of NC, Sabuj Baniya, recalled the late leader Singh's contributions to achieving various freedoms, including women's rights.

Usha Raut Mishra, Chair of the Nepal Women's Association, affirmed the association's active efforts to realize the late Singh's vision for women's rights in Nepal.

The program honored individuals including Lila Koirala (Dhanusha), Laxmi Rai (Bhojpur), Anju Basnyat (Dolakha), Krishna Amatya (Kathmandu), Chirihira Shakya Ranjit (Kathmandu), Sita Dahal (Sankhuwasabha), Hani Shrestha (Sarlahi), Sharada Vaidya (Kaski), Shanta Sharma (Kanchapur), Sona Bhandari (Kathmandu), and Shashi Rimal (Kathmandu) by presenting them with shawls and a monetary award of Rs 15,000 each.