Kathmandu: Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba emphasized the necessity of further empowering women to foster an equal and equitable society.

Speaking at a program organized by the Mangala Devi Singh Foundation in collaboration with Kathmandu Metropolis on Sunday, NC President Deuba highlighted the significance of women's empowerment in creating a society grounded in human rights and justice.

The event aimed to honor women who have contributed significantly to the women's movement, advocating for women's rights, and promoting political and social awareness.

Deuba expressed his belief that such programs play a pivotal role in elevating the status of women in society, thereby potentially strengthening the Nepali Congress as the largest party in upcoming elections.

He paid tribute to the late Mangala Devi Singh, recognizing her as a pioneering leader who played a crucial role in enshrining women's rights in the constitution.

Deuba lauded Nepal's constitution for its provisions related to inclusion, proportional representation, and women's rights, describing it as an exemplary document globally.

Other NC leaders, including Prakash Man Singh, Joint General Secretary Mahalaxmi Upadhyay, and Kathmandu district president Sabuj Baniya, also acknowledged the late leader Singh's contributions to women's rights, democracy, and dignity in Nepal.

Usha Raut Mishra, Chair of the Nepal Women's Association, highlighted the active role of the association in realizing the vision of late Singh for women's rights in Nepal.

During the program, several women activists, including Lila Koirala, Laxmi Rai, Anju Basnyat, Krishna Amatya, Chirihira Shakya Ranjit, Sita Dahal, Hani Shrestha, Sharada Vaidya, Shanta Sharma, Sona Bhandari, and Shashi Rimal, were honored with shawls and a cash prize of Rs 15,000 each.