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Anti-conversion Bill unjustified: AIDWA

By Our Staff Reporter

Madurai Nov. 11 . The Bill banning forcible conversions will affect the rights of minorities and Dalits ensured in the Constitution, the State Council of the All-India Democratic Women's Association has said.

The reasons cited to bring in the legislation are ``grossly unjustified'', pointed out a two-day meeting, which concluded here yesterday.

The council recorded its criticism of the Kanchi Acharya for justifying the Bill. He was trying to retain the `Varnashrama'-based caste system in the Hindu society, the State general secretary, U. Vasuki, said briefing the press. He should first come forward to eradicate untouchability. ``As the Bill is anti-Dalit, the Acharya has decided to meet the Dalits to mollify their frayed tempers,'' said Ms. Vasuki.

The council would soon convene an untouchability eradication conference at Tirupur.

The AIDWA also decided to highlight food security in all its agitations. It urged the Government to withdraw the `targeted Public Distribution System' and `universalise' it so that essential commodities could be distributed to all the poor. ``The issue will be focussed in a Statewide campaign from December 1 to 9 and dharnas organised in front of the Collectorates on December 10.''

On the Act to curb eve-teasing, the council wanted certain amendments introduced to make the law more stringent and effective.

At the same time, a `reform content' should be incorporated so that punishments for minor offences under this Act could be left to the discretion of magistrates.

A departmental enquiry could be contemplated against the crew who failed to react to eve-teasing aboard buses.

Representatives from all over the State took part in the meeting, which also discussed the political situation in the State. The State president, Sudha Sundaraman, presided.

The vice-presidents, Mythili Sivaraman, Amirtham, Mallika and S. Gnanam, participated. The treasurer, Jansi Rani, submitted a report.

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