State Women’s Commission Chairperson Nagalakshmi Choudhary criticized Raichur officials for skipping the Mahila Spandana program, leaving women’s grievances unaddressed.
Raichur
A tense situation unfolded at the Mahila Spandana program and progress review meeting for women’s projects in Raichur on Friday, as key district officials failed to attend. Organized by the Karnataka State Women’s Commission at Pandita Siddarama Jambaladinni Ranga Mandir, the event left many aggrieved women without officials to address their concerns.
State Women’s Commission Chairperson Dr. Nagalakshmi Choudhary expressed strong dissatisfaction, noting that from 10 am to 1 pm, neither the Deputy Commissioner, the District Superintendent of Police, nor the Zilla Panchayat CEO attended. “I have been in Raichur for three days and not a single officer has called to check in. How can I address the problems of women suffering without their cooperation?” she questioned.
During the meeting, a woman with blind adopted children pleaded for employment as an Anganwadi worker, explaining her dire circumstances. A Women and Child Welfare Department official explained that compassionate appointment was not legally permissible due to her low SSLC marks.
Approximately 400 women and persons with disabilities attended, submitting petitions to the commission. Dr. Choudhary warned the officials’ absence reflects a poor administrative system and lack of respect for the commission’s authority. “In my visits to 22 districts, I have never seen such disregard. The commission must assert its authority to ensure women’s issues are addressed,” she stated.
Taluk-level officials were present, but the absence of senior officers highlighted ongoing gaps in accountability and responsiveness in Raichur’s governance system.
