Men march in City to protest VAW

KATHMANDU: Expressing their commitment to work for reducing and ending violence against women, more than 200 men staged a rally in the Capital on Monday, March 23.

Jointly organised by more than 15 social and academic organisations, the 'Men's March: Men against Violence against Women and Girls' proceeded through various parts and corners of New Baneshwor, Old Baneshwor, Gaushala and Sinamangal area on Monday afternoon.

Sanjog Thakuri of Yuwalaya, one of the organisers, said the all-male rally for the cause of women is first of its kind in Nepal.

"The main aim of this event was to create an opportunity for men to come together and discuss, realise and internalise their role in reducing violence against women and girls," he said.  

Two rallies had simultaneously begun from Shantinagar Gate and Pingalasthan of the Capital before both of them converted into an assembly at the Bhimsengola Football Ground.

Addressing the assembly, Chief Secretary Leela Mani Paudyal said men's role in combating violence against women is very significant.

Thakuri said that the organisers have planned to continue the event every year in collaboration with local-level youth clubs, colleges and organisations.

Participants of the rally had carried placards with anti-violence messages and torch lights to symbolise their awareness in protecting women from various forms of violence.

Students of various colleges, representatives of local youth clubs and members of the general public had attended the awareness event.

Child Development Society, Child Watawaran Centre Nepal, Yuwalaya, Classic College International, Kathmandu Model College and Nyayik Sansar among others had joined hands to host the programme.