Mysore/Mysuru: Writer Bannur Raju said “Self- awareness is the key to prevent sex-determination tests and female foeticide as the Government alone cannot address the issue.”

He was speaking after inaugurating a talk on ‘Female Foeticide – A Thought, Familial, Social and Academic Responsibilities’ and the presentation of ‘Bala Kishori Sadhana’ Award, organised by Sri Basaveshwara Samskruthika Pratishtana at Namana Kala Mantapa,  Krishnamurthypuram in city on Monday.

Raju said “Female foeticide is a sin and the civic society should hang its head in shame. It is not just restricted to Mandya and Mysuru, as it has been happening across the country. However, it is incorrect to argue that the Government alone holds the responsibility to check such cases. There should be civic awareness among all, shedding a mindset of not caring for others. Whenever such incidents come to notice, the people should behave responsibly by at least informing the Officers concerned.”

Women are worshipped in India and is revered as Jaganmathe (Universal Mother). It is a matter of shame that we treat women, whom we hold in reverence, in such a disrespectful manner, rued Raju. There is no grave crime than female foeticide and the situation may turn more grave in the society if such illegal activity is not stopped. The Government should take preventive steps and the society also should join hands to protect women, said Raju.

In his keynote address, writer Jayappa Honnali said “It is unfortunate that we worship women for namesake and resort to nip her in the bud constantly. It is a matter of regret that women themselves are saying no to girl child. How fair it is to see the doctors who are considered as life savers are themselves indulging in such heinous acts? The perpetrators involved in such activities should be sentenced to life term with hefty fine, so that the recurrence of such cases can be prevented.”

Child prodigies Niyati Vijaykumar (Cinema), Tanvi Yogesh (Versatile talent and Mahati Vijay Kumar (Art) were conferred with ‘Bala Kishori Sadhana’ award.

Malangi Suresh, Senior Vice-President of Mysore District Government Employees Association, CEO of a private hospital P. Pushpalatha, former Corporators Sunil and Shobha Sunil and Founder-President of Sri Basaveshwara Samskruthika Pratishtana Basavarajendra Swamy and others were present.