No more Violence Against Women: Gynaecs

Amidst a legion of hundreds of doctors, youngsters, men and women from all walks of life carrying placards that read ‘Stop Violence Against Women (VAW)’,‘DHEERA’s BikethonCampaign’ was flagged off by DGP Anurag Sharma and actress Seerat Kapoor on Sunday.

The event was part of the recently culminated Federation of Gynaecologists of India and FIGO (FOGSI-FIGO) 2017 International Conference on Clinical Challenges in Obstetrics &Gynecology at HICC.

Lauding the campaign launched, Sharma said, “It is a noteworthy campaign and the message 'Stop Violence Against Woman' (DHEERA) launched through the support of 34,000 strong gynaecologists from India needs to be taken up seriously by all of us and the society.”

Kapoor,in her address noted, "I honestly believe and strongly support gender equality. I do stand by woman empowerment, I feel for any society to progress this aspect of gender equality needs to be taken seriously. I am hopeful through this 'Stop Violence Against Woman ' DHEERA campaign, we will accomplish the cause that has been taken up by FIGO and FOGSI.”

Talking about DHEERA,Dr SShanthaKumari, Member, FIGO Working Group on Violence Against Women (VAW) said “As obstetricians and gynaecologists we are in a position to assess and provide support for women who experience violence because of the nature of the patient–physician relationship.

We also understand that men are important partners (Men as partners) in preventing VAW and hence there is a need for an integrative approach to tackle this concern.”

“This vital issue also need constant support from both the Central and State governments and most importantly the law enforcement agencies,” she said.

Violence against women prevalence in India is 35.1 per cent. The latest NFHS-4 survey in Telangana shows 43 per cent women experienced spousal violence and 5.9 per cent experienced violence during pregnancy.

At the bikethon, FOGSI-FIGO members urged participants at the event and the society in large to speak about this burning issue to spread awareness and reclaim focus.“Wellbeing has been always the priority of our specialisation. Our aim at this conference is to devise Sustainable Development Goals to enhance quality and inject steps forward in tackling women healthcare,” added Dr Shantha.