Varanasi. On Wednesday evening, in Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of the Prime Minister, women and youth took out a massive candle march under the joint auspices of social organizations Lok Samiti and Asha Trust, chanting slogans like "Stop Domestic Violence."
The protesters, holding candles in their hands, chanted slogans such as "Stop violence against women, not charity — we demand rights, we demand respect to live" and "A woman is also a living human being, not an object of pleasure." They stated that there would be no more silence, that they would raise their voice for their rights, and wanted to ensure the safety and respect of themselves and other women.
Women participating in the program showed solidarity by demanding strict action against gender-based discrimination and violence prevalent in homes, law and order, and society. They urged the government and society to ensure the safety of women and daughters so that they could live a fearless life.
Through the candle march, a clear message was conveyed that tolerating domestic violence, the dowry system, household oppression, and gender inequality is no longer acceptable. The protest organizers stated that they do not merely want to protest, but aim to work towards building a sensitive, just society where every woman receives respect and security.
This program is being seen as a b step not only in Varanasi but also nationwide towards raising awareness against violence against women.
