Call to create awareness on RTI among tribal women
Speaking at an awareness programme organised in virtual mode, she called on Adivasi women to use the Act for their welfare. She said women in tribal regions often faced challenges due to illiteracy and lack of access to information. However, by identifying and training active and enthusiastic tribal women, it was possible to cultivate a culture of questioning and awareness. Once equipped with knowledge of the RTI Act, these women could play a key role in solving local issues by helping others access critical information, she said.
The five-day awareness program was organised in Anakapalli district from July 14 to July 18 by LibTech India and the United Forum for RTI Campaign, Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with various voluntary organisations. Tribal women from the districts of Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Prakasam participated in the event.
Representatives from LibTech India, including BDS Kishore, and members of the United Forum for RTI Campaign also took part in the event.
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Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
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'It is submitted that this policy decision is an outcome of careful and ongoing legislative discussions, considering India's cultural diversity, socio-economic conditions, and the practical challenges faced across the country,' the government said. 'It reflects a clear understanding of the vulnerability of minors, the common occurrence of coercion and manipulation in such situations, and the challenges in proving the absence of consent when minors are involved,' added the submissions, settled by additional solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati. The government also warned that lowering the age of consent would shift focus from the conduct of the accused to the perceived willingness of the child, undermining the spirit of child-centric justice and increasing the risk of victim-blaming. 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'This principle is not confined to a single enactment but is consistently reflected across multiple enactments…This formulation is a deliberate choice, grounded in the recognition that minors lack the legal and developmental capacity to give meaningful and informed consent in matters involving sexual activity,' the government submitted. Invoking international commitments, the Centre also pointed to India's obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which defines a child as anyone under 18 and mandates States to protect them from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse. The POCSO Act, it added, was 'enacted in direct response to this obligation, codifying a strict liability regime wherein all sexual acts with children under 18 are criminalised, irrespective of perceived consent.' 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Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
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Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Minister reviews drafting of PESA Act rules
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