Opposition Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti today called for an end to social biases against women, saying the fairer sex were pivotal for revival of a value-based society which had been scarred by violence and human rights violations.
"Women with their compassion and dedication can take part actively in changing the political system that has degenerated into a tool of exploitation," she told a women's convention in Bandipora district.
"While our social and religious traditions have always advocated balance in the roles of men and women, practices like female foeticide and dowry are a blot on our society and these must be eradicated," Mehbooba said.
She said 14 years ago when she jumped into politics her only concern was safety of life, property and dignity.
"Women were the worst sufferers as in thousands of cases they lost their male relatives and bread earners, leaving them destitute along with their families and children," she said.
"Kashmir can never forget the valour, courage and compassion of its women who sustained the society almost exclusively," Mehbooba said.
Urging the women to play their role in shaping the political future of the state, she said any change would be incomplete without their active participation.
