
KOCHI: Women have entered the venerable portals of local self-government bodies, albeit with reservation. But the infrastructure facilities at the offices of most self-government bodies are yet to be updated to accommodate women. Most agree that basic facilities like enough toilets for women are a must but some consider a separate room for women councillors a luxury.
There are a few like former Mayor Mercy Williams who feel that such segregation is not good. “Toilet facilities are a must. But separate rooms for women are not a good idea as women might feel left out from many discussions. All the problems faced by women will be solved once the Corporation office shifts to the new building,” said Mercy. The women councillors are of the opinion that there is a need for change. “We have been discussing about the lack of basic facilities from the beginning and have planned to make some arrangements. There is a problem of lack of space but something will be done soon. At least there should be enough toilets,” said Deputy Mayor Bhadra Sathish. Shyamala S Prabhu who is serving the fifth term as councillor said there was a room at the Corporation office for councillors. “We don’t get much free time to sit and relax and so a restroom is not that important,” said the councillor. The councillors at some of the municipalities in the district like Thrikkakara, Aluva, Maradu, Paravur, Angamaly, Kalamassery and Tripunithura said there must be enough basic facilities though they are ready to adjust and cooperate with everyone.
Those from Maradu municipality said space constraint is the main problem. Councillor Jalaja Dineshan said, “Even the council hall is too small to accommodate all of us so we are using the corridor as well. Toilet facilities are also not sufficient. Women suffer more under such circumstances.”
K V Sarala, works standing committee chairman, Aluva municipality, who is serving as councillor for the third term said, “As there are more women councillors we have already taken the decision to improve the basic facilities though there is space constraint.” Radhamani Pillai from Thrikkakara municipality also said that there should be more toilets as there are 22 women in the council.
There are a few municipalities like Tripunithura where there is a room and other facilities for councillors. Sasikala Chellappan from Tripunithura municipality said they are the lucky few as they do not face much problems.
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