MUMBAI : With renewed vigour for women’s rights and solidarity for fight to preserve constitution, the 12th All India Democratic Women’s Association conference kicked off on Saturday in Mumbai.
Thousands of women gathered in Maharashtra – the land that witnessed historic protests by Adivasis, farmers and lakhs of mill workers. Slogans against rising crimes against women and government’s discriminatory Citizenship Act filled the air, as the enormous rally entered Azad Maidan in Byculla to begin their conference.
CPI(M) Politburo member Subashini Ali, (AIDWA)All India Democratic Women’s Association General Secretary Mairam Dhawale, President Malini Bhattacharya, Maharashtra President Naseema Yayi Sheikh, All India Christian Sabha President Ashok Dhavale and MLA Vinod Thikole addressed the gathering.
The conference began with silent contemplation for those killed in the anti-CAA protests. President Malini Bhattacharya hoisted the flag at Sabu Siddhique Polytechnic Hall in Ahalia Ranknekar Nagar. Activist Maya Swara Bhaskar inaugurated the conference of representatives. CPI(M) Politburo member Vrinda Karat made the keynote address. The Chairperson Prof Tapti Mukopadhyay delivered the welcome-note while the Condolence Motion was presented by Malini Bhattacharya.
At the conference, AIDWA offered respects to the victims of ruthless political heavy-handedness, to the protesters for their distinctive demonstrations and participants in farmers’ long march,
General Secretary Mariam Dhawale presented the report. Discussions on the report are underway.
