MUZAFFARGARH/
TOBA TEK SINGH

Hundreds of women organised different rallies and urged the government to ensure protection of their rights and a policy for the home-based workers (HBWs).
In Kamalia, the participants of a rally were carrying placards and banners inscribed with slogans, “we want gender equality”, “we want equal rights”, and “not to give us secondary position in the society”. They said that March 8 holds historic importance, as it has emerged as the symbol of struggle of women workers of the world.
Addressing a seminar, speakers said that the society would not progress till accepting the rights of women workers and considering them as citizens with equal rights. They said millions of Pakistani women are equal partner in the production process but are deprived of basic rights.
“In the economy, the share of informal sector is more than 80 percent. International Women’s Day is being observed to highlight endeavours of women in various fields of life besides plight of vulnerable and distress women,” they said.
The focus of the celebrations is on respect, appreciation and love towards women to their economic, political, and social achievements. They also threw light on the 2016 theme for International Women’s Day - “Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality”. The year will reflect on how to accelerate the 2030 Agenda and building momentum for the effective implementation of the new Sustainable Development Goals, they added.
The seminar was held in Government Degree Collage for Women. It was chaired by Principal Rehana Balqise Bukhari, Prof Tasleem Fatima and Prof Misbah Shahzadi and addressed by Madam Fahmida, Student of English Lecturer Maryam Khalid Chaudhry and Iqra Amjid also spoke on the problems faced by house wives and working women.
In Toba Tek Singh, Labour Qaumi Movement and Bhatta Mazdoor Union activists took out a rally to observe the day. It started from Gojra Road Municipal Octroi Post and culminated at Shahbaz Chowk. Addressing the gathering, labour leaders Sajida Pervez, Shagufta, Nasim and others welcomed women’s rights Bill and demanded its implementation.

They condemned the district administration for its failing to get implemented the government’s notification regarding payment of Rs962 per 1,000 bricks wages.