Guv stresses on gender equality on the occasion of Lohri

Chandigarh, Jan 12 (UNI) The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh , Gen (Retd) S F Rodrigues, while extending his greetings on the occasion of 'Lohri' called upon the people to synchronise its festive spirit with societal concerns and to dedicate themselves to the cause of gender equality, with the focus on the eradication of the unethical practices of female foeticide and child abuse.

Gen Rodrigues said though traditionally people celebrate the birth of a male child and the marriage of their sons on 'Lohri' but stressed, ''We have to reverse this trend by changing our societal attitudes and community practices and establish a novel tradition of celebrating the birth of a girl child and plan for her proper development and good education''.

Gen Rodrigues said that the Principle of Gender Equality has been strongly advocated and propagated, by our saints and sages in their teachings and also finds special reference in our Constitution with provisions for the enforcement of laws against pre-natal sex selection and the practice of female infanticide.

Gen Rodrigues said that another area, which has a great relevance connected with this festival of fun and fire, is the need to preserve and protect our enviroment, by making Lohri pollution free and observing scientific guidelines for the burning of firewood and other material.

''Let this occasion of festivities bring cheer and happiness to all, along with a message to enhance our concern for societal and ecological issues,'' he said.

UNI JN JS1648