Hooyah Sir....well, you must be wondering if i have suddenly lost my mind and started rambling. On the contrary, i am on a high.
I have watched a fantastic movie called G.I Jane right now and am hughely inspired by the character portrayed by the wonderful Demi Moore. Strong and resilient, determined and inspirational, the character goes on to show how a spirited individual can break all boundaries.
In a male dominated navy seal training environment, where physical endurance is the most important criteria, she goes on to conquer mindsets, hearts and enemies-- all on the basis of pure performance. The character says..'i dont want any preferential treatment, just treat me as you treat any other man in this program.' She refuses any soft beds or buffers and wants to meet men on an equal terrain, where only performance would determine winners. (Women's reservation whistle blowers, hope you are listening).
If i think about it, i know i am quite a feminist myself. My favorite movies are invariably those where women have a meaningul role, be it She is the Man or Double Jeopardy or Center Stage or August rush or Sweet November. Have a look at the five movies that i could recall when i started writing this piece, and each of them have a strong female central character. So, i believe when i voice my opinion, i would be representing a large section of the emancipated, educated, middle class female population.
Like the central characted in G.I. Jane, we also look forward to an equal playing field. We dont want any preferential treatment nor do we want any glass ceilings. We have the strength, courage and skills to make our own mark. Give us the space, give us the opportunity, we will make our voices heard.
Politics should strive towards building an India where education and job opportunities are equally provided for women. Work towards changing societal believes, give more representation in party hierarchies to women, improve basic standard of living for mothers and daughters across the country. Give them education, give them the strength to stand on their own feet and that is enough to make them an equal participant in social reforms.
Hope the bill doesnot become a puppet for a few section to play the ring leader, drawing the puppet strings from behind. An equal world, an equal opportunity is an ideal world-- not broken down by any narrow domestic means.
