Kathmandu. Prime Minister Sushila Karki underscored the need of bringing women to the policy-making level of the state. Addressing a programme organized to mark the One Hundred and Sixteenth International Women’s Day at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers here today, the former Prime Minister said that the women, who are backward in society and deprived of mainstream of development, were facing the maximum oppression.

“It is imperative to make the voice of Dalit women, women of Karnali region, Madhes and marginalized communities accessible to the policy-making level of the state,” he said. ’

According to him, the condition of Dalit, Madhes, Karnali and marginalized women has not improved yet. Prime Minister Karki stressed on the need of integrating the marginalized groups including women into the mainstream of development and ensuring access to opportunities and resources. He was of the view that ensuring every citizen’s dignified participation in nation building should be the key to democracy.

Stating that the main voice of the Jenji movement held on September 7 and 24 was also for equality and good governance, Prime Minister Karki stressed the need for active support from all sections of the society to end injustice, discrimination and inequality.

“Our constitution has guaranteed women’s rights as fundamental rights,” she said, adding that the constitution itself has established equal representation, inclusive participation, gender equality and social justice as the basis of the state system.