Kathmandu, Mar. 8: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has stressed the need for all to pledge to build a civilized society by eradicating all forms of discrimination against women.

In a congratulatory message on the occasion of the 112th International Women’s Day, President Bhandari has said that some superstitions and harmful practices still exist in the name of tradition and that equal and active role of both men and women was essential in women’s empowerment, participation and equality.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the President has wished more energy and enthusiasm to all to continue the journey of ensuring equality and justice by eradicating all forms of violence, discrimination, oppression and harmful practices and traditions existing in the society.

Stating that the provisions made through the constitution and various laws have strengthened the leadership role of women in all three levels of government, parliament and policy-making bodies, President Bhandari has said as Nepal has been making progress in various indicators of gender equality in recent times.

In a similar message, Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun has said that attention should be paid to all sectors for the all-round development of women by implementing the rights of women guaranteed by the Constitution.

Stating that the prosperity of the country is not possible unless women are politically, socially and economically independent and empowered, the Vice President has wished happiness, peace, prosperity and progress to all Nepali sisters on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

Stating that the constitution guarantees equal rights to every woman without discrimination, the right of women to participate in all state bodies on the basis of the principle of proportional inclusion and equal rights in property and family matters, he has stressed that women occupying more than half of the population should have equal opportunities in every sector.