JU Holds Interactive Dialogue on Law, Gender Equality

Jammu, September 30: The Department of Home Science (Human Development), University of Jammu, organised an interactive dialogue on “The Law as a Catalyst for Gender Equality and Social Transformation” today, featuring Ms Meenakshi Salathia, Deputy Advocate General, J&K and Ladakh High Court, as the resource person.

Addressing the students, Ms Salathia emphasised the importance of legal awareness in advancing women’s empowerment, equality and protection of rights. Referring to the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, she explained the safeguards and avenues for protection and relief available to women facing domestic violence. She stressed that awareness of rights and available legal mechanisms is essential for women to make informed decisions and seek appropriate support.

She also highlighted the challenges faced by women in their careers, including their lesser representation in several professional and leadership spaces. Emphasising the need for confidence, awareness and a stronger mindset, she encouraged women to recognise their rights and support one another. She underlined sisterhood and solidarity among women as important factors in creating an enabling environment for personal and professional growth.

Earlier, welcoming the resource person, Prof. Sarika Manhas, Head, Department of Home Science (Human Development), University of Jammu, highlighted the relevance of legal awareness to Human Development. She observed that family, social and institutional environments, along with access to rights and opportunities, significantly influence individual development and well-being.

The interactive dialogue witnessed active participation from students, who raised questions on women’s rights, gender equality, domestic violence, legal protection, career challenges and empowerment. Prof. Rajni Dhingra, Prof. Neeru Sharma and Prof. Samridhi Arora were also present and participated in the interaction.

The proceedings were conducted by Ms Poorvi Verma, Research Scholar, Department of Home Science (Human Development). The programme concluded with an expression of appreciation to Ms Salathia for sharing her expertise and engaging with the students in an informative and meaningful dialogue.