Imphal, 7 March 2025: The 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. While highlighting the historical background of International Women’s Day, he stated that the rise of industrialization and the women’s movement in Europe, particularly the social changes in England, gave rise to many thinkers and social philosophers, spreading the waves of Marxism and working-class movements across the world, including India. These movements mobilized women and fueled their resistance against injustice and inequality.
Emphasizing Manipur’s present situation, he noted that the resilience and determination of Meitei women stand as a testament to their significant role in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state for centuries. He further stated that Manipuri women are the guardians of the state’s culture, traditions, rituals, festivals, and family values.
Speaking as a guest of honour, A. Noutuneshwari Devi, Retired District & Sessions Judge and Ombudsperson, MU, stressed the need for appointing a woman judge at the High Court and a woman Vice-Chancellor at the university. She also urged MU to frame a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as per UGC norms. Sharing her experiences of working at the grassroots level with senior citizens, she remarked, “We can read the law, but implementation is the problem.”
Another guest of honour, Prof. R.K. Lonibala, Presiding Officer, ICC, MU, elaborated on the role of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), urging female students and staff to be aware of its significance. She emphasized that the ICC is dedicated to addressing issues of harassment, maintaining the confidentiality of victims, and ensuring a safe and secure environment for women. She further stated that the University Grants Commission (UGC) mandates all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to constitute an Internal Complaints Committee. To raise awareness, billboards with helpline numbers have been placed on the campus, sensitizing students and women employees about the ICC’s role. She also reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to fighting social injustices against women and children.
Meanwhile, Prof. Sumitra Phanjaobam, Dean of the School of Mathematics and Physical Sciences and former President of MUWWA, noted that gender bias at MU is minimal, as women hold decision-making positions such as Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors, and administrative officers. She added that various women-related issues can be effectively addressed through collective efforts.
The function was presided over by Prof. Memcha Loitongbam, Dean of the School of Social Sciences and President of MUWWA. In her inspiring speech, she expressed gratitude to the pioneers who fought for women’s rights and emphasized the innate strength of women in overcoming challenges with grace and perseverance. She highlighted MUWWA’s significant role in women’s empowerment and the overall upliftment of MU through its various activities.
Prof. Tampha, Vice-President of MUWWA, delivered the welcome address, underlining the importance of International Women’s Day. Prof. Binita Akoijam, Hindi Officer, MU, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all the dignitaries and participants for their presence. Dr. Sobita, Department of Teacher Education, moderated the event and articulated messages of empowerment, equality, and justice.
During the function, the Vice-Chancellor felicitated retired MUWWA members as a token of appreciation for their contributions. The event was attended by teaching and non-teaching staff, students, and special invitees, all of whom participated with great enthusiasm.
