The Women’s Studies Centre of Thiagarajar College, Madurai, organized a programme on “EmpowerHer: Legal Awareness for Women” in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal – 5 Gender Equality on 26th November 2025. The programme aimed to enhance legal literacy, promote safety, and empower young women and children.
The event commenced at 3:00 p.m. in the Diamond Jubilee Hall. Dr. R. Aruna, Director of the Women’s Studies Centre, warmly welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of legal awareness as a tool of empowerment. She emphasized the role of educational institutions in fostering gender equality and protection from violence. The Resource persons were honored with mementos as tokens of appreciation and respect.
P. Kalaiyarasi Bharathi, Lawyer, Hon’ble Madurai Bench of Madras High Court, delivered an insightful session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. She clearly explained: The scope and significance of the act, protection available not only for girl children but also for boy children, definitions of various offences and reporting mechanisms and duties of institutions. Her session helped the students understand the sensitivity of child-related offences and the importance of ensuring a safe environment for minors.
Mrs. Sona Alagesh, Assistant Professor, Government Law College, Madurai, addressed the audience on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013. Her talk focused on: what constitutes workplace harassment, types of misconduct under the act, responsibilities of Internal Complaints Committees and the historical importance of the Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan (1997) judgment. She highlighted how awareness of workplace rights ensures dignity and safety for women entering professional spaces.
Adv. K. Samidurai, State President of Indian Association of Lawyers, delivered an engaging and informative talk on emergency legal support systems and broader protective laws. He discussed: The child helpline 1098, provisions of the Female Infanticide Prevention Act, 1870, penalties for crimes such as stalking, publishing offensive images, and harassment, the importance of swift legal action in cases involving women and children and explanation of significant legal cases. His session strengthened the students understanding of how law acts as a shield for vulnerable groups.
A lively and productive Q&A session followed the presentations. Students posed thoughtful questions regarding legal procedures, safety mechanisms, and the practical application of the laws discussed. The resource persons provided clear, relatable, and informative responses, encouraging greater confidence and awareness among the participants.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks, proposed by Ms. A. Genoo, a student of I BBA(SF), expressing gratitude to the distinguished speakers, organizers, and participants. The EmpowerHER legal awareness programme successfully met its objective of strengthening legal literacy among students. By shedding light on crucial laws and safety measures, the event empowered young women and children to recognize, prevent, and respond to violence and harassment. The Women’s Studies Centre reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality and fostering an informed student community.
