Q. Tell us about the role and objectives of Anjuman Imamia Women Wing.

Anjuman Imamia Women Wing was established on October 16, 2016, to empower women from all sections of society and work for the welfare of the community. Since its inception, Anjuman Imamia has supported and uplifted many women in need. We have helped women set up shops and small business units, provided educational scholarships, and extended support to specially-abled individuals.

The organization has also played an active role in resolving family and land disputes through mutual understanding and cordial discussions.

At present, Anjuman Imamia Women wing is working with a focus on social welfare, health, and economic upliftment. We are actively advocating for environmental protection as a step toward a better future. As part of this effort, we are promoting healthier eating habits by selling cookies made from locally-produced flour and jaggery. In the near future, we also plan to produce organic greenhouse vegetables. These initiatives not only encourage sustainability but also offer income-generating opportunities for women, contributing to their empowerment.

This is currently my ninth term serving as the President of the Anjuman Imamia Women Wing. I firmly believe that in order to carry out welfare work and run an organization effectively, the support of one’s family is crucial. Their encouragement allows a woman to work freely and with confidence for the benefit of other women and the community.

I am deeply grateful to my family for their unwavering support, which has motivated me to serve with honesty and dedication. My strength lies in my determination to get things done sincerely, while my emotional connection to the people I serve has helped me work more effectively and compassionately.

Q. Women’s participation in policy and decision-making in Ladakh has been largely absent. Recently, there was an announcement regarding women’s reservation in the Hill Council. What are your thoughts on this?

We are truly grateful to the BJP-led ruling government for passing the Women’s Reservation Bill and for ensuring equal opportunities for women. We also appreciate the assurance given by our local leaders to implement this reservation within the Hill Council setup.
Women’s reservation is a crucial step toward empowering women and encouraging their active participation in policy and decision-making processes. For far too long, the needs and struggles of women have been overlooked or not fully understood. Only a woman can truly relate to these issues and find effective solutions.

This move is especially important for a region like Ladakh, where women’s role in policy and decision making is almost absent. I strongly encourage women to step forward, participate actively, and work for the welfare of all women in our society.

It is equally important that the women who are elected to the Council are committed, dedicated, and work without limitations for the upliftment of every woman, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. We need leadership that is not only strong but also compassionate and inclusive.

Q. What is the status of women in Ladakhi society, and what challenges do they face in their day-to-day lives?

We often hear on various platforms that women in Ladakh enjoy equal rights, have decision-making power, and are treated equally to men. While these claims sound promising, the reality on the ground is quite different.

In practice, women are still not given the same level of trust or importance as men, especially when it comes to leadership roles or decision-making. Most religious and social bodies do have women’s wings or associations, but the question remains—do these women’s wings hold the same power or influence as their parent bodies? The answer, unfortunately, is often no.

In many areas of work, women are still seen as secondary, and their abilities are doubted or underestimated. This is why women's reservation and the presence of women leaders in policymaking and decision-making roles are not just necessary—they are essential.

If we want genuine progress, we need to move beyond symbolic inclusion and ensure that women are trusted, empowered, and given equal space to lead and shape society.

Q. Caste discrimination is one of the major concerns and is still practiced in Ladakhi society. What is your opinion?

Caste-based discrimination was more commonly practiced during the time of the kings, but over the years, we have seen a gradual shift. Thankfully, things are beginning to change—and they should—because such divisions are man-made. These distinctions are not created by God, nor are they written in any holy scriptures.

Today, as more people become educated and aware, there is growing rejection of such outdated and unjust practices. However, there is still work to be done. We must all come together—regardless of caste or background—to actively work towards completely abolishing caste discrimination from our society.

True progress and harmony can only be achieved when every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and equality.

Q. Drugs and substance abuse have become a growing concern in Ladakhi society. What role can parents play to prevent their children from falling into such habits?

The role of parents is absolutely crucial—there is no second thought about it. Unfortunately, in Leh and other parts of Ladakh, we are witnessing a rise in cases of drug and substance abuse among youth, which is deeply concerning.

One major factor contributing to this issue is the easy access to money. When children are given excessive amounts of money without supervision, it opens the door to misuse. Peer pressure is another strong influence that can lead them down the wrong path.

Parents must engage actively in their children’s lives. They should spend quality time with them, communicate openly, and stay updated on what’s happening in their world. It’s no longer enough to simply trust that children won’t engage in harmful behavior—times have changed, and so must our approach to parenting.

Monitoring their activities, setting reasonable limits on money, and creating a safe, understanding environment at home can go a long way in protecting children from falling into addiction. Parental awareness and involvement are key to prevention.

Q. Every religious organization has its own women’s wing. How do you all work collaboratively, and what kind of relationship do you share?

The women wings of all religious organizations share a very friendly and harmonious relationship. We work together with a spirit of unity and collaboration, putting aside any differences for the greater good of society.

Our joint efforts focus on raising awareness about important issues such as drug abuse, environmental protection, and promoting communal harmony. By supporting one another and working collectively, we aim to create a more peaceful, healthy, and informed community.

Message to the readers

“If we want genuine progress, we need to move beyond symbolic inclusion and ensure that women are trusted, empowered, and given equal space to lead and shape society.”