Manipur University, 7 March 2025: Manipur University Working Women’s Association (MUWWA) and the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), Manipur University (MU), jointly observed International Women’s Day 2025 and organized an Awareness Programme on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace on 7th March 2025 at the Women’s Facility Centre, MU.
Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of MU, Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Highlighting the historical significance of International Women’s Day, he reflected on how the rise of industrialization and the women’s movement in Europe—particularly societal changes in England—gave rise to many thinkers and social philosophers. These influences contributed to the spread of Marxist ideas and working-class movements worldwide, including India, mobilizing women in their fight against injustice and inequality.
Discussing Manipur’s contemporary scenario, Prof. Lokendra Singh emphasized that the resilience and determination of Meitei women have played a crucial role in safeguarding the state's sovereignty and protecting its territorial integrity for centuries. He recognized Manipuri women as the guardians of the state's rich culture, traditions, rituals, festivals, and family values.
Delivering the Guest of Honour address, A. Noutuneshwari Devi, Retired District & Sessions Judge and Ombudsperson, MU, underscored the need for appointing a woman judge at the High Court and a woman Vice-Chancellor at the university. She also stressed the importance of MU formulating a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as per UGC guidelines. Drawing from her experiences at the grassroots level, she remarked, "We can read the law, but its implementation remains a challenge."
Another Guest of Honour, Prof. R.K. Lonibala, Presiding Officer, ICC, MU, elaborated on the crucial role of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). She urged female students and staff to utilize the committee’s support system, emphasizing its responsibility to address harassment complaints while maintaining the confidentiality of victims. She highlighted that UGC mandates all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to establish an ICC. Furthermore, she informed the audience that billboards with helpline numbers have been placed across the campus to sensitize students and women employees about the ICC’s role. She reaffirmed the committee's commitment to fighting against social injustices affecting women and children.
Prof. Sumitra Phanjaobam, Dean, School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences, and former president of MUWWA, stated that gender bias at MU is minimal, as many women hold key decision-making roles such as Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors, and Administrative Officers. She encouraged collective efforts to address various women-related issues.
The event was presided over by Prof. Memcha Loitongbam, Dean, School of Social Sciences & President, MUWWA. In her inspiring speech, she expressed gratitude to the pioneers who fought for women's rights and highlighted the resilience of women in overcoming challenges with grace and perseverance. She reiterated MUWWA’s role in empowering women and uplifting the university through its activities.
Prof. Tampha, MUWWA Vice-President, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the significance of International Women’s Day. Prof. Binita Akoijam, Hindi Officer, MU, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to the dignitaries and participants. Dr. Sobita, Department of Teacher Education, served as the event’s moderator, delivering messages of empowerment, equality, and justice.
During the function, the Vice-Chancellor felicitated retired MUWWA members in recognition of their contributions. The event saw enthusiastic participation from teaching and non-teaching staff, students, and special invitees.
