Social activist and philosopher Roshan Lal Sharma shares his views on women's empowerment and social values
Social activist Sharma urges policymakers and society to balance women’s rights with family values, cultural ethics and social harmony
Yamunanagar | Pen of Democracy News Desk
Social activist, philosopher and President of Samaj Hitkari Sangathan, Roshan Lal Sharma, has called for a broader and constructive public dialogue on women’s empowerment, social values and the evolving challenges facing Indian society.
Stressing that women deserve the highest respect, dignity and security, Sharma said the country’s progress should be accompanied by efforts to preserve social harmony, family values and cultural traditions.
Expressing his views on current social and legal issues, Sharma said women’s empowerment is essential for building a progressive and inclusive society.
However, he maintained that policy decisions and legal reforms should also take into account their long-term social impact.
According to him, strengthening women should go hand in hand with reinforcing the values of mutual respect, responsibility and family cohesion.
Sharma said he was prompted to share his views after watching a video of a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
Without commenting on the protest itself, he expressed concern over what he described as the declining standards of language and public behaviour in certain public spaces.
He said civility and respectful conduct are the hallmarks of a healthy society and should be upheld irrespective of differences in opinion.
He stated that every civilised society is identified by the respect it accords to women, whether as mothers, daughters, sisters or wives.
While governments must continue working towards women’s safety, education, equal opportunities and empowerment, Sharma said there should also be an open and inclusive discussion on issues that may influence social and family structures.
Expressing his personal views, he referred to subjects such as live-in relationships and certain policy matters concerning women, saying they merit wider public debate so that their possible long-term social implications can be understood from different perspectives.
Sharma further said that he had voiced similar concerns in the past and that his observations had previously been published in local newspapers.
He emphasised that the changing social landscape calls for thoughtful introspection by citizens, policymakers and community leaders alike.
Concluding his remarks, Sharma reiterated that respect for women must remain non-negotiable.
He urged society and governments to ensure that women’s rights, dignity and empowerment continue to advance while simultaneously nurturing ethical values, family traditions and social responsibility.
According to him, meaningful dialogue involving all sections of society is essential for achieving balanced and sustainable social progress.
