Advani: Need to Focus on Women's Health, Education

L.K. Advani has called for a greater focus on ensuring the health and education of women. He is the senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader. Addressing doctors and other certified specialists at the annual conference of the Delhi State Medical Association organised by the Delhi chapter of Indian Medical Association (IMA) over the weekend, Advani, speaking in the context of the December 16 gang rape of a 23-year-old para-medico student, said: "Especially after this horrendous incident when the entire focus of the nation has come on women and girls, our government should pay due attention and spend their resources in educating and empowering the women folk."

"They (women) should get equal opportunities as men, and, I am happy to share that some of my party's chief ministers have given concentrated efforts to ensure that girls receive maximum education. Similarly in the field of health, the efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality and proper nutrition for women and children, is a matter of grave concern. These matters are of immense importance," added Advani.

"Many people say that the year 2013 should be made the 'Year of the Woman', 'The Girl Child and The Mother'. I think we would do a great job if we can convey this message to the medics across the country through resolutions," observed Advani.

The December 16 gang rape has fuelled a nationwide debate about the prevalence of sexual crimes in India, where a rape is reported as taking place on average of every 20 minutes.

Source-ANI