9738 - Women Participation in Nepali Labour Movement
9738 - Women Participation in Nepali Labour Movement
9738 - Women Participation in Nepali Labour Movement
Prepared by :
Binda Pandey
Editing :
Bishnu Rimal
Mahendra Shrestha
M's Mouse, Putali Sadak, Ph. No. 977-1-265944
Published By :
GEFONT-Nepal
Price :
Nrs: 150.00
ISBN:
99933-329-2-5
PREFACE
As the title shows, Women Participation in Nepali Labour Movement is a record of
women's participation in historical events in Nepal. This is not, however, a
description of history, but an analysis of both the bright and dim sides that have
supported as well as hindered the activities of women. The ninth chapter truly
summarises the fact.
What is noteworthy about the study is its message that history should not be
limited to the prayer of kings, nobles and aristocrats, it should rather be an
analytical exposition of the deeds of the working class people, who genuinely write
history out of their sweat and tear. And the study is just a beginning; a number of
events are yet to dig out, as the 'limitation of the study' warns. We all need to
realise that it is not a duty of an individual, not of a research team alone. It is a
common responsibility of us all.
This study is devoted to clarifying such vibrant issues as 'gender, sex, gender
discrimination, patriarchy' and the 'liberation of women.' Amidst the discussion of
historical events, the study also reflects the vision of GEFONT on many pertinent
issues. The study also deals with other labour-related issues in the context of
labour practices. A discussion on the present day trade union movement and
women's participation in it, problems facing workingwomen, gender and the policies
of key labour organisations on women is obviously contextual, timely and educative
not only for women but for everybody concerned with labour as well as social
movement.
Comrade Binda Pandey deserves special thanks for her hard labour to lead the
team that undertook the study. Thanks are also due to other members of GEFONT
family who have been involved in this study one way or the other. I should not let
this opportunity pass without expressing my sincere thanks to the Committee for
Asian Woman, Bangkok for supporting this timely study.
Mukunda Neupane
Chairman
National Committee
PART -ONE
INTRODUCTION
Rationale and Objective of the Study
Women have played a significant role in every movement of historical importance in
Nepal. They have duly fulfilled their civic duties and responsibilities. But the role
and contribution of women find a little mention in the written history of the
movements. So happens with the case of the contribution of women to the trade
union movement. Their courageous deeds have been unnoticed and their sacrifices
have not been recorded. The objective of this study is to highlight those
contributions made by Nepali women, which have so far fallen into oblivion. To put
in specific terms, the study aims to gather live information about the activities of
the living personalities who are legend in their own lifetime thereby ending the
tradition of neglecting the contribution of women to the history of the working class
movement, as it is seen in other socio-political sectors.
Existing gender discrimination in our society is an obstacle to the recognition of
contribution made by women. Labour movement of Nepal has also been affected by
this trend. General Federation of Nepalese Trade Unions (GEFONT) is committed to
eliminating this tendency. The study is an effort to that end- an utmost effort to
honour the role of women in the Nepali working class movement, an effort to salute
the courageous women and regard them as a source of education and inspiration to
the future generation. This study is therefore to challenge the patriarchal attitude
that women are good grihalaxmis (housewives) and that the house is their world.
The report of historical events that built along with women, and which have a
strong bearing on the present-day Nepali society, do clarify that there is nothing
women have not done, and nothing they cannot do.
The study report has been divided into nine main parts: Introduction of the study,
the state of women's participation in the labour sector, women's participation in
democratic movement, women's participation in labour movement, women in
present trade union movement, problems of women workers, gender policy of
labour organisations and conclusion. Some materials supplementing the study have
been included in the annex.
The Scope of the Study and Research Methodology
The study, in the beginning, was supposed to give brief information on the entire
women movement, and then to concentrate on manufacturing and industrial
sectors. However, on the basis of various discussions held and recommendations
received at the initial stage of the research, the scope of the study had to be
expanded further. As a result, it was decided to include the history of the peasants'
movement as a part of the study.
The work began with interviews with the leaders of the Nepali Labour Movement of
1947, who are the senior most personalities of the entire Trade Union Movement,
late Man Mohan Adhikari and Nepali Congress President Mr. Girija Prasad Koirala.
On the basis of information received through interviews and visit of Biratnagar Mills
Area, a numbers of facts could be dug-out. Discussions were held with the activists
of the Labour Movement. Interviews were held with such activists as Anasanni
Bajei, who staged a 27-day hunger strike in 1950, and Hadtaliki Ma, who gave birth
to a child while taking part in the strike. Many other activists both women and men
supplied a numbers of information in this regard. In an effort to collect further
information, Balram Giri, one of the leaders of the movement, was also interviewed.
"We never thought that people would come some day to enquire about these
women. Therefore, no effort was made to safeguard the information," said Balram
Giri, whose words reflect the attitude towards women in our society.
Information received through meetings with the courageous women activists, who
participated in the jute mill struggle in Biratnagar Mills Area in 1951, and other
leaders and cadres, inspired and enriched the research work. Information was also
collected from leaders and activists of several movements in Balaju, Hetauda,
Pokhara and other industrial districts and cities.
The research concentrated in areas like education, civil service, and public
enterprises including banks. It was also an effort to collect at a time the information
about the role of women in agriculture, production and service sector movements.
In the final phase of the study, women activists involved in democratic movement
of the country were interviewed. These women activists uncovered much
information shadowed over times. Besides personal meeting and discussion with
former leaders and workers of the manufacturing, agriculture and service sectors,
group discussions were organized on a regional basis as the other method of the
research. Articles from various newspapers and publications, conversation with
various trade union leaders, information from their offices and publication, and
information from national and international trade union organisations have also
been the sources of this study.
Limitation of the Study
Very little literature is available on the Peasants' Movement although it is a
pioneering movement, which produced a large number of political activists and
leaders. It is a real challenge to locate them out, however. As a result of various
obstructions, the study has not been able to collect information on incidents as
much as it had to in this sector. The study has, however, reached to a conclusion
that there is quite a lot to be searched and identified.
The study had to be completed a year ago. However, it was not possible due to
various reasons. The study raises an honest question as to how the information
based on limited resources, and collected from the personalities linked up with the
historical events of agriculture, manufacturing and service sector would represent
courageous movements in the remaining sectors.
It also needs to be mentioned that no effort was made to incorporate the
movement of the working women in domestic, rural, informal and self-employed
sectors.
As a large number of women involved in the movement are illiterate, it was their
memories to furnish information. It is, therefore, obvious that many important facts
about many incidents have gone missing as the memory power declines, as one
gets older and older.
PART - TWO
Total
Number Percent
Men
Number Percent
Women
Number Percent
9,473
100.0
4,736
100.0
4,727
100.00
1,517
4,100
3,846
16.0
43.3
40.7
1,153
1,103
2,440
24.3
23.3
52.4
365
2,997
1,377
7.7
63.4
28.9
Agriculture has been one of the worst working sectors, which has nothing to
provide as incentives and facilities. It is one of the worst sectors also in terms of
working conditions. According to NLFS, the largest number (85.19 percent) of
women labour force, above 15 years of age, involved in income generating
activities are in this sector. The percentage of women working in non-agriculture
informal sector on a daily wage basis and without any kind of other facilities is
12.80 percent. The construction sector such as buildings, road, water and electricity
as well as other works operating under a contract or a piece-meal fashion fall under
this category. Areas of work with regular remuneration plus other privileges have
been grouped as the non-agriculture formal sector. This also includes women
working in public offices, corporations, factories and other private offices. The
survey shows the women labour at the lowest (1.99 percent) in this sector.
Table 2: Women Participation by Sectors of work (in '000)
Sector of Work
Total Labour Force
Agriculture
Non-Agriculture
Informal Sector
Non-Agriculture Formal
Sector
Total Percent
9,476
100
7,203
76
1,657
17.5
1,052
22.21
605
12.80
603
6.5
509
10.75
94
1.99
TOP
Total
1,517
245
70
26
385
Men
1,153
212
60
21
311
Others
791
549
69.41
243
30.72
Total
1,517
6
33
171
105
55
11
33
193
67
838
5
Men
1,153
5
29
133
94
49
10
19
169
66
574
5
in %
Women
76.00
365
83.33
0
87.88
4
77.78
39
89.52
11
89.09
6
90.91
1
57.58
14
87.56
24
98.51
1
68.50
264
100.00
0
in %
24.00
0.00
12.12
22.81
10.48
10.91
9.09
42.42
12.44
1.49
31.50
0.00
Total
100.00
60.3
9.7
11.8
9.3
5.6
1.9
1.1
0.2
Total
(%)
287
93
53
40
29
26
17
15
14
Men
100
32.40
18.47
13.94
10.10
9.06
5.92
5.23
5.23
142
5
24
35
20
20
17
7
14
Men
Women
Women
(%)
(%)
49.48
145
50.52
5.38
88
94.62
45.28
29
54.72
87.50
5
12.50
68.97
9
31.03
76.92
6
23.04
100
0
0.00
46.67
8
53.33
100
0
0.00
Source: NLFS 1998
On the other side, women participation is high in agriculture sector, but the
participation of men is higher in agro-related training such as farming and animal
husbandry. Therefore, the practical utilisation of such training provided by different
organisations should be evaluated.
Work
Average in Totality
High Level Administrative Job
Vocational
Technical
Low Paid Employees
Service Sector
Agriculture
Average
Income
2,143
8,037
5,079
2,971
2,832
2,507
2,109
Men
2,389
8,068
5,141
3,057
2,836
2,506
2,756
Percentage of
What Men
Receive
1,368
57.26
7,525
93.27
4,631
90.08
2,678
87.60
2,805
98.91
2,525
100.76
9,57
34.72
Women
Cottage Industry
Machine Operator
Other Professions
Army
2,773
2,981
1,491
3,306
2,973
2,995
1,692
3,258
1,393
2,037
1,054
4,250
46.86
68.01
62.29
130.45
10
PART: THREE
11
in prison and tortured by the then Rana rulers. But still she did not give up the
path. She struggled until her last breath.
In a meeting with the wife of Rana Prime Minister Juddha Shumsher, Yogmaya was
offered a plate full of gold coins. She refused the offer stating that she would be
more satisfied if a religious and humane state could be established. She then left
for Dingla chanting hymns all the way. As the rulers recklessly killed for their
demands of justice, Yogmaya, with her elder brother, his wife and daughter plus
other 68 disciples, committed suicide by jumping into the Arun River.
from "Leader of Social Movement and Poet Yogmaya"
Yogmaya was a child widow. She had experienced inhuman and tortuous life of a
widow in a conservative society. The committee constituted under the leadership of
Yogmaya concentrated its activities on the exploitation against women in the name
of religion and tradition, particularly the widow marriage, child marriage and
polygamy. Within a few years of its activity, the committee submitted a 24-point
petition of demands stating the problems facing women to the Prime Minister
Chandra Shumsher. Following the death of Chandra Shumsher, Yogmaya and her
disciples came to Kathmandu and met and discussed the matter with Juddha
Shumsher and his wife. After receiving assurance of reform in religion they
returned back to Bhojpur. But, instead of working on the letter of demand, the
government killed four revolutionaries in 1940. Yogmaya's group lost hope. Finally
with a firm statement that "it is better to die than to live in the lawless state",
Yogmaya and her disciples collectively sacrificed their lives in protests by jumping
into the Arun River in 1941.
Rammaya Nepali
Rammaya Nepali, who began working in Singha Durbar at an early age of 15 years
in 1935, retired after a 45-year long service. She did not have any children but
raised her niece as her own daughter. She presently lives with the family of her
niece at Maitedevi, Kathmandu. Her Father was a Tamang and Husband a Chyame.
She is quite sad to read newspapers mentioning her a Pode.
Rammaya used to live near the house of Nepali Martyr Ganga Lal. Her mother used
to work as a house- maid of Ganesh Man Singh. When Ganga Lal, Ganesh Man
Singh and other leaders were imprisoned in Singha Durbar, Rammaya used to carry
letters for them from their relatives.
Ganga Lal and others used to leave their letters in the toilet and give her a signal
stating "Rammaya! There is a spider web, please clean it". Rammaya was not that
familiar with politics, but she knew that the exchange of letters was dangerous and
important too. She was ready, however, to take the risk. This was really a great
help to the political movement of the period.
"Everyone has their family in Kathmandu, but if I am killed here, there is nobody to
cry for me. Ram Maya, you cry for me, OK", Dasarath Chand had said once to Ram
Maya. When the Rana rulers killed the four revolutionary leaders in 1937, this has a
serious hurt to Her.
People contribute to movements not merely through political consciousness, but
12
13
Shrestha was quite successful in showing black flags to the Mission. Everyone
praised her courage. Nepali women also took part in other anti-Rana activities.
At the same time, autocrat Basnet families murdered the family of Danti Bhoteni of
Solu and confiscated their property. But Danti Bhoteni did not loose hope. She
came to Kathmandu on foot disguised as a man wearing Daura Suruwal. She then
began asking for justice at the Royal Palace but later, on her return back to the
village, she was murdered.
This phase of the women's movement concentrated on such issues as the
recognition for widow marriage, abolition of child marriage and polygamy, end of
the exploitation of women in the name of religion and tradition, equal opportunity
of education and employment for women, voting rights for women and so on. The
movement brought about some reforms in the education system and some
flexibility in the traditional value system.
Sadhana Adhikari
We had accompanied our father who used to do business in Bhutan. After the World
War II, we came back to Nepal from Bhutan following a two months trek. During
the period, women in Nepal were quite hesitant to come out of their homes. In
1948, a procession began from Padmodaya School in the name of civic society.
Four women, Sahana, Snehalata, Kanaklata and myself and many men were
arrested. Everyone was locked at a single place inside Singha Durbar. Policemen
threatened us that we would be hanged. Regardless of the threat, we started
hunger strike. We were released after seven days of imprisonment. Our family was
scared that the society would reject us following the release. We also did not know
what would happen. But as soon as we came out, the public welcomed us
jubilantly. This provided us with further encouragement. Our family was very happy
at our courage.
Nepal Women's Association was set up in 1947 and we sent a delegation to the
Prime Minister demanding voting rights for women. In 1949, we organised a
procession demanding for education. Women peasants also took part in the
procession, but not the middle-class women. We were mixed-up with the family of
peasants, live there, talk to them and generate awareness in them.
A conference of peasants was held in 1949 in the house of Nati Dai. Among the
3000 peasant participants, more than 20 women participated in the conference.
Participation of women peasants was consideribly high in the women procession
organised on Sripanchami in 1951. We were given voting rights in 1952. When I
stood for elections, women peasants helped me in publicity and were actively
involved to ensure my victory. Political activities were not affected even after my
marriage in 1954. I gave birth to a child in 1958 and was responsible for his
upbringing. It compelled me to take up teaching, thus could not make politics my
career. I, however, prepared an atmosphere congenial for Man Mohan comrade to
become completely involved in politics. In a way, my role was that of an assistant
to him.
I was in Biratnagar during the Teachers Movement in 1979. I assisted the
movement from there. I retired in 1992 after 33 years in teaching. Still I don't
reject anyone for the work I am able to do. I have assisted from my side, so will do
in future as well.
As talked to Sadhana Adhikari, June, 2000
14
In 1952, political parties and peoples'organisations started debating over the issue
that the Delhi Agreement was a betrayal. The debate also reflected the differences
in political thinking. Mangala Devi led a faction, which believed that women's rights
could be aatained through the reform. Kamaksha Devi led the other side with the
belief that only a radical change could provide women with their rights. While this
debate was going on, the Indian Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru came to Nepal.
Nepal Women's Association decided formally to protest him with black flags at the
airport. Eight women including Sabitra Shrestha were arrested and were released
after a week. Mangala Devi Singh did not support the decision and conflit were
intensified in the organisation. Finally, Nepal Women's Association was divided into
two different Associations.
Sabitri Shrestha
Before going to the airport to display black flags we went to the house of Mangala
Devi. "You all go, I have to attend a meeting", she said. We went through the
jungle of Guheswori. Eight of us including Shrimaya Shrestha, Bishnu Kesari
Shrestha, Silbandi Shah, Janaki Shrestha, Renuka Shrestha, Kanchi Didi, Sabitri
Poudel and myself were arrested. We were kept in custody, close to a toilet, at
Hanuman Dhoka. We were shifted to the upper storey after we staged a hunger
strike for three days demanding to shift us from there. We were tortured by both
policemen and policewomen. They pulled Sri Maya by her hair. Among us, she was
the one most severely tortured.
Based on conversation held in September 2000
15
16
A section of an ultra feminist movement had also developed in the Nepali Women's
Movement. It has been mentioned in Matritwa (1995) and Mahila Mukti (Volume 5).
The demands were limited to education for women, participation of women in the
interim government, skill development for women etc. They had also stated that
"men are our enemy, we have to keep them under our control. We don't need men,
nor are we concerned about them."
The Declaration (1951) of All Nepal Women's Association (ANWA) put up
the following demands
The women movement that voiced for radical changes held that women could
achieve independence along with others only through struggle against feudalism
and imperialism.
Dwarika Devi Thakurani was elected from Dadeldhura district in the first general
elections in 1958. She was also appointed as the first women Minister- the minister
of state for health.
In 1960, King Mahendra forcibly replaced multiparty democratic system by
Panchayat System. Women came to the streets in protest of this reactionary move
of the King. Shailaja Acharya, Umadevi and Gauri Rana were in the forefront
protesting with black flags on February 18, 1961. They were arrested.
All women organizations were banned along with the declaration of the Panchayat
system. But women participation continued in the movements carried out by
workers, peasants and students. They continued organising themselves in an
underground existence. A large number of women participated in the movement
organised by students demanding Free Student Union in 1965 and the movement
against DIG Narayan Singh (who tried to harass sexually the woman artist at
Rastriya Nachghar in 1966).
The armed struggle of Jhapa in 1971, which is renowned as "Jhapa Bidroha" also,
had women Participation. Lila Kattel, Gaura Prasain and Sita Khadka were among
the notable women who fought fearlessly in this movement. All three of them
served jail terms for this. Among them, Lila Kattel died in a rickshaw accident,
unfortunately after a few years of release.
During these movements, women were responsible for providing shelter to the
underground leaders, changing their places of living and exchanging news and
information. Sharada Mainali is one of the bravest women who have played a
significant role in this regard.
17
In order to keep the public under their clutches, the Panchayat rulers had set up
different class organisations. Nepal Women's Organisation was one of them founded
under the leadership of the women from the palace and aristocrat family.
Established in 1962, a handful of women under the banner of this organisation
reaped benefits in the name of women in general. It is noteworthy, however, that
the aristocrat women had started celebrating International Womens' Year and
International Working Women Day (March 8) in the name of "womens' day" since
1975. The organisation has been gone astray along with the fall of the Panchayat.
C. Participation in Anti-Panchyat
movement between 1979-90
All Nepal Women's' Association dissolved after the coup of 1960 was re-constituted
in 1978 under the convenorship of Parijat. But, this could not carry out any
programmes immediately. Therefore, on February 1980, a seven-member All Nepal
Women's Association Central Preparatory Committee was constituted under the
convenorship of Shanta Manawi with Swasti Bajracharya, Jaya Ghimire, Radha
Gyawali, Sanjita Giri, Sharada Mainali and Kamala Rai as its members. From the
year, the International Working Womens' Day (March 8) was celebrated at the
people's level as an important day of women's movement. It was, thereafter
established as the Working Women Day.
Namita and Sunita- Murder case
Residents of Lazimpat, two sisters Namita and Sunita were admitted to College
following the results of School Leaving Certificate (SLC) Examinations, 1981. Next
year, they went on a tour to Pokhara. After a few days in Pokhara, the two sisters
were raped and murdered by some hooligans. Their dead-body were found at the
bank of the Seti River. Women then waged a nation-wide movement demanding
action against the culprit involved in the crime.
From Ghosana issue -1
Following the murder of Namita and Sunita in 1981, ANWA led a nation-wide
protest programme. A grand procession was organised on June in Kathmandu. The
procession submitted a letter of protest to the Prime Minister at Singha Durbar and
converged into a mass meeting in the premises of Tri-Chandra College. Students,
peasants, workers and people from all walks of life, men and women, took part in
the programmes organised and led by ANWA demanding stern actions against the
culprit and protection for women. The nation witnessed procession and rallies, wall
painting, postering and distribution of pamphlets all around the country.
Not only March 8, the Teej, a cultural festival of Nepali women, also became an
occasion for women activists to carry out a lot of programmes. Led by ANWA,
women throughout the nation utilised the day as an awareness-oriented cultural
festival. In 1985, police charged Lathi on the women gathered to celebrate the Teej
at Butwal.
The multi-party system was declared on
Era). Even after this, none of the culprits
Instead, insecurity of women increased.
raped 11-year-old girl Asali Maya Tamang
18
19
the rapists with nails and throw chilly dust in their eyes and run away." Such an
irresponsible statement of the Home Minister enraged the women. On July 20,
ANWA further organised a protest rally near the site of the incident at Dilli Bazaar
demanding action against the culprits and resignation of the irresponsible Home
Minister.
The hooligans were however left scot-free. ANWA delegated a fact-finding mission
about the incident and continued other forms of movements to pressurise the
concerned authority. The association also pressurised the Home Minister to forward
the case to the council of ministers. Instead of considering this issue with due
austerity, the Home Minister accused the women of their carelessness for their
insecurity, and made such silly suggestions as to grow nails, scratch the men who
attempt to misbehave and throw chilly dust in their eyes. The women enraged at
this remark, organised a mass meeting at Dilli Bazaar against the rape case and the
negligence of the Home Minister. The meeting was coordinated by ANWA.
Some recommendations presented by ANWA to the Constitution Reform
Recommendation Commission.
20
Action against the culprits from the Panchayat time who committed murder,
rape and other inhuman behaviour against women.
Return of the girls sold abroad and arrangement of employment for them.
Effective prohibition of dowry
Two-month maternity leave for working women, and allowances for
education to the children
Proper arrangement for child-care centre and health care for babies.
Proper arrangement of housing and care for the orphan, helpless, disabled
and elderly women.
No Night-shift work for women
Compulsory and free education up to the secondary level and
encouragement & opportunity for women in higher education.
Abolishment of child marriage, abduction marriage, exchange marriage and
pandav bibaha.
Easy and effective measures to obtain divorce and strong legal mechanisms
to check forcible divorce.
Nationwide campaign for women literacy
Public holiday for all women on March 8.
Complete prohibition of drugs and control of liquors
(From, Mahilamukti Vol. 4)
1941
1946
1947
1951
1960-79
1980
1979-90
1981
1988
1990
21
22
Part-Four
23
Devi Paswan, who worked at Biratnagar Jute Mills from 1950-1986, said, "Women
participated in 1951 movement carrying kitchen utensils with them. They also
participated in other forms of the movement, including donation collection. Devi
Paswan gave birth to a son while she was on a strike. She is thus known as the
"Hadtaliki Ma," because the son was named Hadtali
Mangalmaya Bajracharya is another revolutionary of the Cotton Mills. Born in 1915
at Tangal, Kathmandu, Bajracharya reached Biratnagar with her husband in 1948
and started working at Ganapati Cotton Mills from 1950. Mrs. Bajracharya worked
for 11 years at the cotton mill and shifted to the Jute mill from 1961.
Hadtali ki Ma: Devi Paswan
Devi Paswan, an Indian by birth, is an inspiring personality to Nepali workers. Born
in 1918, Mrs. Paswan worked for 37 years, from 1949-1986, in Biratnagar Jute
Mills. In this period she actively participated in many movements. She is presently
known better by hadtaliki ma, than by her name, Devi Paswan. Mrs. Paswan, who
presently lives at Tikule, Jogbani, says that during her 35-year working life, she
took part in many movements and faced the suppression of reactionaries.
Although she is presently facing a hard time to survive, she is proud of her past.
When the research team identified itself as the representatives of GEFONT, she
24
stood up raised her closed fist and shook hands firmly and said, "This is how we
welcome".
Based on a conversation on January 1999
Mrs Bajracharya who retired after 28 years of service at the Jute Mills says she was
severely beaten up by police during the 1981 Labour Movement. Mangalamaya
Bajracharya, who was always active in the labour movement, while she worked in
the factory, is still active.
Yashoda Rana Magar is a Comrade-in-arm of Mangalmaya Bajracharya. Yashoda
began working at Ganapati Cotton Mills and was involved in Nepal's Labour
Movement from the beginning. She took part in the 1951 Labour Movement and
continued even after she lost her employment when the factory was closed. After
1951, she was actively involved in the 1975-80 Labour Movement of Biratnagar.
Presently 56-year-old, Yashoda cannot even walk properly because of injury on her
legs. She is currently living with her youngest son at Barmeli Tole near Hulas Metal
Company in Biratnagar.
Besides the movements held in the industrial area of Biratnagar, movements
carried out in other areas are also worth noting. Active workers in the public sector
constituted All Nepal Low Paid Employees Organisation. The Organisation mobilised
more than 17,000 employees in the movement held in May 1951. The movement
came to an end after their demand was fulfilled. It is also learnt that the
organisation also had women involved in its movements. What kind of role the
women had in the movement is however still a matter of further research.
Another section of the Nepali Labour Movement is the Peasants' Movement. Women
peasants took to the streets in the anti-rana movement in Kathmandu, Sadhana
Adhikari recalls. The Peasants' Movement carried out in different parts of the
country from 1951-60 is also important. Women actively participated in all these
movements. Particularly, the movements held in Parsa, Bara, Nawalparasi and
Bardia are notable ones in this area.
Peasant Movement of Western Nepal
Bhim Datta Panta, who served jail sentence for taking part in the Independence
Movement in India, came to Nepal in 1949 and involved himself in uniting peasants
in Dadeldhura and Baitadi to fight against the Ranas. After the fall of the Rana
Regime in 1950, a Peace Volunteers Group was constituted in his initiation. Mr.
Panta gradually distanced from Nepali Congress due to its pro-Indian inclination
and came under the influence of Marxism. Demanding land for the landless, he led
a movement, in 1953 among the peasants, tillers and cattle herders in Bajhang,
Bajura, Kailali, Baitadi, Kanchanpur and other adjoining areas. He was arrested in
1953. Women who were involved in the Peace Volunteers Group led the public
pressure standing in the forefront. As a result, Mr. Panta was released on June 25,
1953. He was beheaded on July 25, 1953 by the government. The authorities
however refused to handover the corpse of Panta to his wife. Instead, it was
hanged in a public place. This kind of inhuman murder did not stop revolutionaries,
specifically the peasants, from taking up the movement with ideals. Pant had
passed on to them.
Beluwa Banjari Peasant Movement:
25
In December 1959, a movement against landlords began in Dang District with the
participation of the Tharus, the indigenous people in the locality. The movement
took a new height in 1960. In an effort to contain the movement, the then Nepali
Congress government murdered peasant Gumraha Chaudhary. Women had an
important role in this movement in which Lahani Chaudhary and Somati Chaudhary
had a leading role. Police arrested Ratna, Kalu and Lahani and released them after
a weeklong torture.
"When the landlords came to loot mustard in 1959, all of us except old and
children, went out to defend the land-lord atrocity with sticks in our hand. Lahani
suffered injuries on her back. But we were not hopeless, we did not left the ground
for the landlords. Rather, we could chase away their servants. They came again,
next morning, we chased them again", says Somati Chaudhary.
Commenting on the movement, she adds, "They came back to fight again in 1960.
The fight continued throughout the month of June/July. Police assisted the
landlords, they haunted regularly to look for our people. One day, Ratna and Kalu
were arrested. Gumraha was murdered. We had to struggle hard to save the village
people from the Jamindars and police."
Lahani Chaudhary
Lahani Chaudhary is a personality whose name should not be left out while talking
about the Beluwa Banjari Peasants' Movement. In December 1959, landlords and
their muscle men, in total around 150, came at mid-night to loot mustard. All the
peasants in Beluwa Banjari resisted collectively and were successful in chasing
them away. Clever and fearless, Lahani Chaudhary led the women in this struggle.
Mukhiya of Gairhe Khatte arrested her and tortured for two days. In July 1960, the
landlords prohibited the peasants to plough the fields. Once again, a movement
was organised. The peasants chased the autocratic Landlords away from the fields
again although the police and administration supported the landlords. Lahani had a
leading role even in this movement. For this, she was arrested, brutally tortured
and released after seven days.
From Menaka Pokhrel
Besides this, women activists have played decisive roles in many other movements
held during this period. The peasants' movements, which had notable participation
of women, can be listed as follows:
B. Participation in 1960-1979
Labour unions were banned with the enforcement of Panchayati system in 1960.
But, the workers, who were aware that the movement was the only way to fight
against injustice, did not stay quiet for long time. After the enforcement of the land
reform programme in 1964, peasants started to revolt against landlords in many
places. Some of such movements can be stated as below:
26
1956
1953
1958
In 1968, a delegation of 115 peasants went to the Royal Palace. The delegation had
an equal participation of men and women. Gurud Acharya, Ram Bahadur Giri, Hari
Prasad Subedi, Ram Prasad Dahal, Netra Bahadur Chettri, Bir Bahadur Awale,
Kesari Maiya Khadka, Laxmi Magar and Kunti Devi Manandhar were in the
delegation. After a 15-day Dharna in front of the gate of the Narayanhiti Royal
Palace, two of the representatives of the delegation were called by the Palace. "If
the representatives are telling the truth, it will be responded accordingly, " said the
King. The delegation then returned back to Hetauda.
Pran Maya Bajracharya
Born in 1985 in Jhinbahal, Lalitpur, Pran Maya says"I married Mohan Bajracharya
after I came to know that my parents were about to get me married with another
person. We started the married life at Bhimphedi, Makwanpur from 1948."
"I came to know about politics after we arrived in Bhimphedi. I was more involved
in politics after my husband was arrested in Parwanipur in 1951. Due to the floods
and landslides of 1954, we shifted to Chisapani. Living here, we became fully
involved in the Satyagraha movement of 1957. Here, I came close to the
Communist Party.
After 1964, police administration came to snatch the ownership of our land. This
was a question of living affecting both men and women. Everyone became united to
participate in the movement. In connection with this struggle, three women,
including Kunti Devi and other men, were arrested and released after three days in
custody at Chisapani Gadiya. When Badahakim came, women gathered together
and told that they would sacrifice their lives but not the land, " Prana Maya
accounted.
"We had a prolonged fight with police on May 1969. I was beaten unconscious. A
Red Cross team came to take me to hospital but the procession refused. Only the
27
next day, I was taken to the hospital amidst a procession", Prana Maya added.
Mohan Bajracharya was in prison, Pran Maya in hospital. Only four of their children
were at home. As her brother's wife offered her to look after their children she
replied the children would grow up with peasants, and fight for their cause hand-inhand with peasants.
This courageous woman of the 1969 movement involved herself in helping
underground leaders and workers of the party. Because of the injury she suffered
on her backbone as a result of lathi charge by police in 1969 she gradually lost her
speech and hearing capacity.
Based on conversation of February, 2000
But, the order of the King was not enforced. As a result the movement continued.
On April 1969, 17 peasants, including Mohan Bajracharya, Krishna Hari Rizal and
Kunti Devi, Kangali Deaula, Laxmi Magar, Kesari Maiya and other women were
arrested in this movement. Following the arrest the movement further intensified.
On May 1969, the land administration came with police force to survey the land.
Thousands of people gathered there. A tussle arose between the two groups again.
Pran Maya Bajracharya, an active participant of the movement, was beaten
unconscious by police. Protesting peasants retread this by tying 18 policemen to
trees. The fight lasted throughout the night. Pranmaya was not sent to hospital
even when the Red Cross team came. She remained unconscious.
Next morning, a procession was organised with the slogan that "Land to the tillers!"
The procession took Pranmaya to hospital for treatment. After medical check-up,
she was brought back and kept at a chowk. The police force came again, but was
chased away by the people. The people stayed awake the whole night guarding the
market, which was completely closed.
Additional police and army forces from Kathmandu were brought to suppress the
movement. Hundreds of peasants were manhandled. Next day, Damodar Shumsher
came to inspect the action and ordered that Pran Maya would not be held. She was
released from hospital. Following the release, she went to the police station and
said, "I have not run away. I will be at home, will come out to fight if called for."
2. Labour Movement of Biratnagar
The Labour Movement of Biratnagar in 1965 can be taken as a major one among
the movements that took place during this period. Women working in Biratnagar
Jute Mills actively participated in this movement.
Durga Devi Rana Magar
Durga Devi was born in Burma in 1997 and was brought to Nepal when she was
two-year-old. She used to live at Burmeli Tole and worked for about 40 years at
Biratnagar Jute Mills. She was actively involved in Labour Movement held during
the Panchayat Regime. She suffered head injuries in the 1975 movement, which
disturbed her memory. "I tparticipated in the movement carrying my six-monthsold baby in encounter with with police. I was hit hard on my head I fell down
spilling blood all over the road. After my husband noticed it, he took me out from
the crowd and provided me with medical treatment. Otherwise I would have dead,"
28
she thus gives an account of the movement. On women participation, she says,
"Women were in the forefront in the 1975 movement, for which they were sacked
from the factory jobs. But, another movement reinstated them."
Showing a scar on her leg, she suffered in the movement, Durga Devi says, "Many
women fought a life and death battle in the movement." Coincidentally, she took
part in the Eastern Regional Women Labourers Training Program of GEFONT held in
Biratnagar. She helped a lot in finding out other women of her time. She is still
working in the Biratnagar Jute Mills.
Based on a conversation on December 1999
29
incidents were usual, but the administration used to accuse all the revolutionary
peasants as "dacoits".
Shedding light on her participation in the movement, she further added, "I took
part in the movement unable to tolerate injustice and oppression by police
administration and Jamindars. If we had not taken part in the movement, many of
our houses would have been looted." She never felt scared to fight against the
Jamindar. As Asma says, she has been involved in politics from 1980, and will
continue it.
Women participation was at maximum in the Karjahi Peasant Movement, one of the
most renowned movements in Dang. Laxmi Chaudhary, Asma Kumari Chaudhary,
Patharkali Chaudhary, Maiya Chaudhary, Shanti Chaudhary, Indra Chaudhary,
Kewala Chaudhary, Surajkali Chaudhary, Shyamkali Chaudhary, Sukanya
Chaudhary, Kalika Chaudhary, Belkesari Chaudhary, Sauni Chaudhary and Kali
Chaudhary were amongst those who fought against Jamindars. Among them,
Patharkali Chaudhary was a bit aggressive even, the reactionaries named her as
Indira Gandhi of Nepal.
Women were in the forefront resisting the landlords in the Karjahi in 1980.
Whenever police came to surround the village, all the villagers used to gather and
resist them with sticks in their hands. Once when, Netralal was in the village, the
villagers disguised him as a Tharu come to the place to look for horses, and helped
him escape away.
In the repressive situation, Pattharkali got her-self actively involved in the
movement with the belief that death is inevitable and that she would be honoured
as a martyr if killed.
Some renowned Peasant Movements
1965
1967-69
1975
1976
30
campaign, Astalaxmi Shankya and Krishna Bhakta Manandhar left Kathmandu for
the Eastern Region while Meera Dwanju and Purna Shobha Chitrakar headed
towards Nuwakot. In course of the movement, they met Kamala Amatya, Narayani
Rana, Bindabasini Shrestha, Renu Thapa, Manju, Santosh Pyakurel, Kunta Sharma
and Bindabasini Karmacharya. They all participated in the movement.
Members of that group later involved in organisational works in the industrial area
in 1979. Women participation in the 1979-82 movement was encouraging. They
took part with special interest in the May Day programs. In 1979, the workers in
Balaju staged a strike along with a 27-point demand. A large number of women
took part in the Sit-in programme that took place for 45 days inside the Balaju
Industrial District. During the strike, police tried to arrest Laxmi Bahadur Karanjit
but a group of women foiled the attempt. Meena Kafle however was arrested and
released after an hour following enormous pressure from workers outside.
The movement was called off with an agreement following 45-days of continuous
sit-in. However, immediately after that, 10 workers, including 8 women, were
expelled from the Nebico.
Sharada Lama
Talking of the Balaju Workers Movement, the name of Sharada Lama comes at the
top as a fighter woman of the movement. In 1980, Sharada used to work in Crystal
Woollen Factory. She was an active member of Nepal Independant Workers' Union
since its inception. The first National Gathering of the Union appointed Ms Lama as
31
a member of its Central Preparatory Committee. She was expelled from the factory
in 1983.
Working in the union, Lama learned to read and write. She continued her
involvement in the labour movement even after her expulsion from the factory. She
says that she had to struggle many times with Village Panchas while launching antiPanchayat awareness programmes through cultural programmes in the villages.
There was a compulsion to keep women active in most of the movements but not to
involve in the executive responsibilities. According to Ms Lama as the society would
take it otherwise if male friends were accompanied to home, she had to carry a
Khukhuri as her friend. "During that time I had to return home alone at night. I
always used to carry a Khukhuri in my right hand and a torch light in my left hand
while walking at night. I always used to walk on the left side so that I could see on
the right if anything was to be defended."
"On my way to Thapathali, I happened to attend a seminar on Equal Rights in
Constitution organised by ANWA. As I came to know about the legal provision for
property rights for daughters, I took property from my father immediately," she
courageously put her points.
Lama is presently living at Raniban VDC on the land and property she got from her
father.
As talked to her in Frebruary 2000
32
33
Likewise, on August 1988, a 45-day strike was staged in all the textile industries in
Kathmandu valley. Obviously, many women participated in the strike.
4. Hetauda Industrial District
Labourers in Hetauda staged a strike in 1979 where women were in the forefront.
In 1979, Sita Dhungana represented the NIWU-Makwanpur District Committee
while Shubhadra Regmi, Meena Poudel, Sabitri and other were active members of
the Committee. Since 1983, women workers in Hetauda had begun celebrating the
International Women Workers Day. In 1983, the workers of Hetauda Textile Factory
put a charter of demands including a 60-day maternity leave, child-care facility and
paid-leave for women on March 8. As a result of this movement, women in Hetauda
received paid-leave on March 8. Union members Goma Timilsina, Bishnu Ojha and
others led the movement. Bal Kumari Thapa was active in the rural sector. It is
noteworthy that women in Hetuada have always been in the fore-front of every
national movements.
5. Teachers' Movement
Nepali teachers launched a nation-wide "pen-down" for the first time on May, 1979.
About 20 to 25 teachers, including Nila Bajracharya, Sharada Koirala, Pran Tara
Shakya, Lalita Manandhar, Purna Shobha Chitrakar and Bindabasini Karmacharya
were arrested while they tried to gherao Kathmandu District Education Office. They
were released after a week. Following this, a valley level gathering of women
teachers was held in August. Altogether 81 women teachers took part in the
gathering.
After this, the first national gathering of teachers was held in September at
Bhutandevi Secondary School, Hetauda. Police tried to terrorise the gathering and
warned to shoot in case anyone came out. Even in such a tense situation, women
teachers kept up the spirit of the participants by singing such inspiring songs as
"struggle is life, life is struggle, let's not therefore be afraid of death." The
gathering successfully held its programmes. However, It was quite ironic that not a
single women teacher was represented in the Central Organisation Committee
constituted by the gathering.
In 1982, teachers organised a dharna at Bhadrakali. Women had an active
participation. Similarly, in the "Let's go Kathmandu" Progrmme of 1984, women
teachers had a good participation. In the preparation leading up to the movement,
many women teachers in Sunsari were arrested under the "fill up prison"
programme. Women expressed their utmost courage by breaking the police circle
and continued their active participation in the days that followed.
Meera Dwaju
We had been organising teachers since 1975. A gathering of only women teachers
was also held in Kathmandu. In 1982, the teachers staged a sit-in programme at
Bhadrakali, around 68 teachers, including Kamala Amatya, Narayani Rana, Krishna,
Bindawasini Shrestha, Nirmala, Jagatlaxmi and myself, were arrested. We were
released from the Dilli Bazaar jail after three weeks.
Although women actively participated in the movements held during this time, their
participation in policy decision level was seen only after restoration of democracy in
34
the country. Currently, the teachers' organisation has been carrying out a number
of activities for women under a separate department of women.
The overall picture of the movement shows that women were always in the
forefront of the movement carried out in the earlier days when organisations were
not systemic. Unfortunately, women were pushed behind as the organisations were
institutionalised and the movement got strengthened.
6. Nursing Sector
The movement in the Nursing sector began from 1985, and proceeded through the
movement in 1985 making its unique identity. The sector was quite vibrant and
strong in the popular movement of 1990. A statement by Nurse Meena Poudel that
"crores of amount has been deposited in a Swiss Bank in the name Pampha Devi"
and that the pillage of its kind be revolted strongly encouraged not only the nurses
but also to all others. Two activists were shot dead by police in Kirtipur on April
1990. Their dead bodies was brought to Teaching Hospital, where nurses Jyoti,
Iswori, Wakila Chudal, Radha Devkota, Shubadhra Koirala and others played a
highly acclaimed role and they did not allow the police force to enter the hospital
and take away the dead bodies. They even tried to snatch guns from the police
hands as they were resisting. The same year, nurses organised a strike against
Thribuvan University decision of expelling 25 assistant nurses from Teaching
Hospital. They staged a sit-in program in front of the office of Vice-Chancellor. The
movement concluded only after permanent appointment of those 25.
7. University Teacher
Many Indian Teachers used to work in Nepal during the Rana rule. There was a big
difference between the facilities enjoyed by Nepali and Indian Teachers. In 1952,
the University Teachers gave an ultimatum to the government demanding equal
services and facilities. Their demands were timely fulfilled.
Nepal University Teachers Association (NUTA) was founded in 1962. Later, King
Mahendra could turn the association in his favour. In 1979, anti-Panchayat
professors took hold of the association and continued the movement for their
professional rights and academic independence. Women were also involved in the
process although they had a little role in decision making. By then a practice of
electing at least one woman member in every central election has been established.
University Teachers also had an important participation in and contribution to the
1990 popular movement. In the name of a professional solidarity they were always
active and willing to abolish the Panchayat system.
Women have a good participation in banking and telecommunications. Even in
terms of education, women working in the sectors are better compared to those in
other sectors. However not a single movement was carried out in the banking and
telecommunication sector to support what was proceeded until the restoration of
democracy.
35
1954
1960
1966-9
1966
1968
1975
1979
107980
198182
197584
1989
1990
36
PART - FIVE
GEFONT
NTUC
DECONT
Others
Total
No. of Affiliates
Enterprise level
National
unions
Federations
867
651
322
1840
Membership in
Number Percentage
15
18
11
6
50
310,575
194,000
17,670
100,000
621,845
49.94
31.19
2.84
16.08
100
Women participation in our trade union movement is still not satisfactory. The
presence of women in the leadership level of all Confederations is only 12.6
percent, while their presence is 11.95 percent in national affiliates. Women
participation is rising in comparison to the past, but equal representation is far off.
Confederations differ in views on the participation of women in trade union
movement. The policy of GEFONT is Not Mere Representation but Equal
Participation in this connection. This means that the physical presence alone does
not produce expected results. According to GEFONT policy, mere representation will
just encourage the 'Cosmetic personality' instead of developing real women
leaderhip. Thus, development of willingness and a sense of competition among
women are necessary to foster the participation of women in all levels so that
expected results could be achieved. A "separate and special programme" for skill
development of women is the first priority of GEFONT.
37
Name of the
Confederations
GEFONT
NTUC
DECONT
Total
Percentage
Number of National
Committee Members
Total
Women
Men
35
21
21
87
100
3
5
2
11
12.6
32
16
19
66
87.4
The number of unions and committees affiliated with the 15 federations and CWWD
affiliated with GEFONT is 1,123. The total number of organised members in these
unions is 9,202. Of them, 1,066 (11.58 percent) are women. GEFONT has been
launching leadership development programmes for women workers from the central
to district level with the establishment of a separate women's department.
Federations affiliated with GEFONT have also set up separate departments to run
women development programmes. It has significant impact to increase women
partcipation in Union movement. The table below presents women's participation in
GEFONT affiliates.
Table 10: Women in Committees under GEFONT affiliates
Name of
SN
Union
1
NIWU
ITGWUN
ITWAN
NICWU
NIHWU
UNITRAV
IPWUN
ITPWUN
Total No. of
Women
No. of
Organised Members
Mechanism
in %
Unions/
in Committees
Committees
Total Women Men
Valley Dept.
46
550
200 350 36.36 Valley Dept.
(Negligible Women
104
852
107 745 12.56
the Workforce)
Central and Local
109 1247
4 1243
0.32
Department.
Central and Valley
82
225
52 176 23.11
Department.
(Negligible Women
115
765
25 740
3.27
the Workforce)
(Negligible Women
55
425
1 424
0.24
the Workforce)
Central and Local
14
132
1 131
0.76
Department.
53
279
69 210 24.73 (Negligible Women
38
in
in
in
in
the Workforce)
9
NATU
11
CUUPECNepal
IGCUN
12
13
NIFBWU
NICIWU
14
15
NRPU
FAWN
16
CWWD
10
Total
30
275
274
0.36
75
539
14
525
16
135
26
109
56
75
627
714
45
32
582
682
60
192
395
1743
41
299
1123 9202
0 395
190 1553
39
working in the banking sector are women, among them 20 percent work in Nepal
Bank Ltd. The number of women in other banks is near about 10 percent. Women
participation in concerned unions is rather low compared to their presence in the
workforce. Women employees have still not been represented in Inter Bank
Employees Federation.
Even though women with a certain level of education are working in this sector
their level of awareness about professional rights and welfare is not encouraging.
To address this gap, a union has been formed amidst banking employees with a
specific department that deals with women's issues including the participation of
women in the union activities.
Other Public Enterprizes:
Out of 24 Public Enterprises in Nepal, unions have been formed in 22.. Union
activities in this sector also began after 1990. Women are also actively involved
inprofessional movement the union has been taking up since its establishment.
The number of women in this sector is about 10 percent of the total 35,000
workers. Women are in large number in Nepal Telecommunication Corporation.
Women participation was quite encouraging in the movement against the
government bid to privatise telecommunications in 1990. In terms of
responsibilities majority of women working in the NTC are operators. As in other
sectors, some of which mentioned above, women have not yet been represented in
the Telcom Employees Association of Nepal - the union of telecommunication
employees.
The Nursing Sector:
Many nurses were self-inspired to participate in the socio-political movements while
providing medical treatment to those who were tortured and injured by police for
their participation in the movement for social justice. In a number of ways the
nurses in Nepal have expressed their support to the movement. In 1991, they
obstructed the police team who had interfered in the movement of civil servants
staging a Hunger strike as part of their programme. As police took the hunger
strikers to Teaching Hospital to force them to eat, the nurses resisted bravely
ignoring Lathi charge of police and did not allow the police to take the hunger
strikers in to the hospital. It is just an example of many encouraging experiences.
The Civil Service:
In 1990, employees from the civil service and corporation moved together under a
single banner to picket the Royal Nepal Academy to force to resign the then socalled interim government. This unity later gave rise to the nation-wide movement,
which began in August 1991. Women actively participated in the movement for
which 98 women were punished. Shobha Gautam was jailed for a month and was
later dismissed from her job.
Table 11: Participation by the Area of Works (In '000)
Area of Work
Total Workers
Agriculture and Forest
Total
9,463
7,190
40
Fishery
Minerals
Manufacturing
Electricity, Gas and Drinking Water
Construction
Wholesale, Retail and Small Trade
Hotel and Restaurant
Transport and Communications
Finance
Real Estate Business
General Administration and Security
Education
Health and Social Services
Community Services
Private and Domestic Work
Others
13
8
553
24
344
408
114
135
19
32
70
164
34
57
289
8
12
6
366
24
292
283
63
130
17
25
64
126
26
51
80
6
92.31
75.00
66.18
100
84.88
69.36
55.26
96.30
89.47
78.13
91.43
76.83
76.87
89.47
26.68
75.00
1
2
186
2
52
125
52
6
2
6
6
37
8
6
209
1
7.69
25.00
33.63
8.33
15.12
30.64
45.61
18.75
10.53
18.75
8.57
22.56
23.53
10.53
72.32
12.50
Women were in the forefront in hunger strikes, and other protests including dharna
(sit-in) during this movement. Police charged lathis on the organisers, manhandled
them and tore off the clothes. In some cases women had to buy some clothes at
nearby shops to cover themselves, one such incident occurred in Jhapa. Altogether
25,000 employees faced different types of administrative action and some of them
also lost their jobs because of their participation in such movements. Five hundred
of them were women.
The Communication Sector:
The Communication Sector is one of the strongest sectors today. The number of
newspapers edited by woman has crossed 40 now. The first newspaper edited by
women was the mahila (woman) published in 1952 under the editorship of Sadhana
Adhikari. The other one was Sankalpa published in 1985. Most of these newspapers
discontinued after some time.
During Panchayat Autocracy, only a few women could be found involved in mass
media as news readers for radio and television. Women participation in the sector
increased after the end of Panchayat. This increasing participation of women in
journalism itself marks a revolution. This has naturally given more focus on
exploitation, injustice and discrimination against women, and has helped
communicate various news and views on gender equality to the public. On the
other hand, their participation has also helped the communication sector to become
gender-sensitive.
In earlier days, most of the women entered this sector as columnists. Nowadays,
women are involved in every kind of work. The women willing to work in
challenging sectors to bring changes in the society as a role model in the areas of
work have joined the communication sector. According to the statistics of 1997,
women participation in mass media is 9.16 percent. Of this, 12.3 percent are in the
government sector and 5.84 percent in the private sector. However, women are still
not in policy making level in both the sectors.
41
Electricity Authority:
Women participation in this sector is seen right from its inception. In 1986, a
demand was put forward to make permanent to those working on contract. A
movement was organised in 1990 to make all the workers in the sector permanent.
Basically, women were in the forefront. Shashi Ghimire was also represented in the
CBA team to negotiate with the government. When the CBA failed, Shashi Ghimire
quarrelled with the Minister for Water Resources. This was responded by dismissing
Shashi Ghimire from her duty.
Three hundred out of nearly 9,000 employees in Nepal Electricity Authority are
women. They are also actively involved in union activity.
University Teachers:
Nepal University Teachers' Association- the Association of University Teachers,
joined the movement along with the advent of democracy. In 1991 elections,
Suprabha Ghimire was elected as the first woman president. This was the first
instance a woman was elected to the highest post of the University Teacher's apex
body. Around 20 percent of 6000 university teachers are women at present.
42
PART - SIX
43
The problems are not only related to women, they are the problems of the society
as a whole. This calls for the entire social movement to be serious to resolve the
problems. The labour movement, which is the vanguard of social change, should
pay special attention to this aspect.
Women issues should be one of the major issues for collective bargaining in the
trade union movement. Although some of the issues have been taken up, they are
not a priority. Women-related demands that have been raised so far include
maternity leave, trained mid-wives, proper arrangement for child-care, separate
toilets for men and women, equal wages for the same work and paid-leave on
March 8.
These demands are surely genuine and relevant, but not sufficient. In the days
ahead, the union movement should focus on gender sensitive labour policies, laws
and planning; women friendly and healthy workplaces, proper maternity protection,
family responsibility benefits, equal employment opportunities, legal actions against
all kinds of harassment and awareness raising activities in their demands.
44
PART - SEVEN
On the basis of the above policies, CWWD has developed following objectives
45
Thirty percent reservation for women in every union committee and activity.
Formation of women committees in order to run activities for women.
Run separate activities to develop women leadership.
C. Democratic Confederation of
Nepalese Trade Unions (DECONT)
Democratic Confederation of Nepalese Trade Unions (DECONT) has adopted the
following policy on women workers:
46
47
48
PART - EIGHT
Conclusion
The history of Nepal is focused mainly on the royal family, feudal lords and highclass aristocrats. It does not mention anything specific about the working class
people who are the genuine history makers. The main reason behind this is the
domination of feudalistic attitude and culture in the society. As in every society
divided into the rich and poor, Nepali history has always been in the favour of the
former.
The relationship between woman and man in a patriarchal society is like that of a
"slave and master". Such a society considers women as the property of men. And,
no matter how much the man is exploited by the feudal class, he expresses his
supremacy by ruling over the woman. The same is reflected in the writing of
history. The contribution of women has been overarched. Against this reality,
conclusions of this research can be drawn as follows:
49
50
51
Annexes
Annex -1
S.
No
Nepali Congress
Communist Party of
Nepal (UML)
Rastriya Prajatantra
Party
Others
Total
2
3
4
69
69
20
11
22
205
0
7
14
205
0
7
12
205
0
11
Annex-2
TOP
S.
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Women in Central
Leadership (1995)
Total
Women
31
3
41
41
2
15
1
It was not established
15
Women in Central
Leadership (2000)
Total
Women
31
3
42
41
11
21
3
0
1
2
1
11
Annex-3
TOP
The ILO must articulate a gender perspective on the world of work. Building on
current activities to promote equality of women, the aim will be to examine the
economic and social roles of both women and men, and to identify the forces, which
lead to inequality in different domains. It will involve broadening the focus of
attention from the de jury achievement of equality for women to the de facto
52
results of economic policies, legislative measures and labour market outcomes for
different groups of women and men.
One of the most important tools at the disposal of the ILO is gender
mainstreaming. Although an established policy of the United Nations system and a
methodology that is widely used in other organisations and programmes, gender
mainstreaming is still at an incipient stage in the ILO.
An integrated gender policy requires action at three levels in the ILO: at the
political level, within technical programmes, and at the institutional level.
First, political support for gender mainstreaming requires far greater representation
of women in the tripartite decision-making structures of the Organisation, within
governments, and in employers' and workers' organisations.
The constituents must redouble their efforts to ensure the presence of women
within the structures of the Organisation and within there own bodies.
Second, the Office will take systematic steps to mainstream gender considerations
into ILO programmes and technical co-operation. This will require gender impact
assessment, supported by empirical research on key issues such as gender aspects
of globalisation and the changing nature of work. Gender concerns will also have to
be reflected much more systematically in ILO information systems and statistical
databases.
Third, institutional mainstreaming within the ILO must include gender-sensitive
programming and monitoring systems, a strategically located and strengthened
focal point system, and appropriate training and personnel policies, which enhance
career opportunities for women.
Related ILO Conventions on Women Labour
3, 103
:Maternity Protection
14
:Weekly Rest
29, 105
87, 98
89, 171
:Night Work
100
:Equal Remuneration
111
:Family Responsibilities
Annex-4
TOP
Annual Southern African Trade Unions Forum (ASATUF) has been a good example
of an initiative that aims to empower women in South Africa ASATUW- meets every
year to discuss common issues and make relevant recommendations. All networks
are responsible to implement the recommendations in their organisation life and
53
activities. The Forum has provided the sub-region women a meeting-place where
they learn from each other's experiences and built a network for a regular contact.
The principal aim of the Forum is to foster mutual cooperation amongst women to
develop and implement effective and result-oriented programmes. It has identified
the following priorities.
The Forum has identified mainly two areas to concentrate its programmes.
The first area is the women education in trade unions and gender issues. The
Forum policies on this area follow:
The second area is to increase the participation of women in leadership. The Forum
has following to adopt in this respect.
Positive Action: Awareness raising, specific programmes for the development of
women leadership through a separate organisational set up, and establishment of
capable
women
into
leadership
The following strategies have been developed to implement the policies stated
above.
Annex 5
54
chemical, electricity and mining works. GEFONT's one of the affiliates, Nepal
Independent Chemical and Iron Worker's Union, is affiliated with ICEM. It has
adopted the following programmes in order to develop the participation of women.
ICEM has its own mechanism to implement the policy. Every four years, women's
conference is organised to form the international department. The conference elects
chairperson and vice-chairperson. Regional department chairpersons are ex-officio
members of this department.
Regional conferences assess the programmes launched amidst women annually.
These conferences also worked out plans for the next year. The programmes in the
international level are evaluated through the department meetings.
Annex- 6
(ICFTU)
is
one
of
the
ICFTU launches separate programmes for women in every sector. Through these
programmes, the centre aims to inculcate self-respect into women, it provides
training on technology-related issues and hopes to foster the competitive
participation of women in union movement. It will launch programmes with women
under "positive steps and actions."
ICFTU and PAP Policy
Much remains to be done: some union practices and structures effectively
discourage women's participation; resistance to women holding positions of power
remains common and issues such as sexual harassment are not addressed
55
seriously; and even though most unions now have policy on equal rights, they still
have to develop activities and services, to educate and campaign to turn that policy
into practice. Passing resolutions and adopting policies on paper doesn't accomplish
much if they are not applied. One of our greatest challenges is to change attitudes
on issues of equality. That's why, in 1992, the International Confederation of Free
Trade Unions (ICFTU) Executive Board- on which sit elected union leaders from all
regions of the world-adopted the Positive Action Programme for Women in
Development Co-operation (PAP) as a policy for the ICFTU and its affiliates at the
international, regional, national and local levels.
PAP means more than "equal treatment" or measurers "against discrimination."
Positive or affirmative action is dynamic. It includes active measures- to redress the
effects of past discrimination- to eliminate discrimination that is happening nowand to promote equality overall.
The PAP is a tool for the use of the ICFTU, its affiliates and regional organisations,
International Trade Secretariats (ITS) and co-operating organisations to make sure
that:
Acharya, Indira
Acharya, Rukmini
Acharya, Shailaja
Amatya, Kamala
Baidhya, Kokila
Bajracharya Mangalmaya
Bajracharya, Nila
Bajracharya, Pranmaya
Bajracharya, Reena
Bajracharya, Swasti
Basnet, Kunti
Bhandari, Namita
Bhandari, Sunita
Bhoteni, Dati
Bhusal, Pampha
Bidari, Sita
Bishwakarma, Rammaya
Bohara, Sabitri
Chaudhari, Indra
Chaudhari, Kali
Chaudhari, Kalika
Chaudhari, Kebala
Chaudhari, Lahani
Chaudhari, Laxmi
Chaudhari, Maiya
Chaudhari, Pattharkali
Chaudhari, Sauni
Chaudhari, Shanti
Chaudhari, Shyamkali
Chaudhari, Somati
Chaudhari, Sukanya
Chaudhari, Surajkali
Chitrakar, Purnashova
Choudhari, Belkeshari
Chundal, Wakila
Devkota, Radha
Devkota, Shrijana
56
Dhungana, Punyaprabha
Devi
Dhungana, Sita
Dhyaula, Kanggali
Dulalni Bajai
Gautam, Shova
Ghimire, Jaya
Ghimire, Shashi
Ghimire, Suprabha
Ghimire, Yamuna
Giri, Sanjita
Giri, Kamini
Ghale, Bhadra
Gyawali, Radha
Iswari
Jagat Laxmi
Kamaksha Devi
Kanchi Didi
Karki, Laxmi
Khadgi, Pampha
Khadka, Sita
Koirala, Dibya
Koirala, Sharada
Koirala, Shubhadra
Lama, Sharada
Magar, Laxmi
Maharjan, Menaka
Mainali, Sharada
Malakar, Jamuna
Manabi, Shanta
Manandhar, Lalita
Manandhar, Laxmi
Manandhar, Padma
Manandhar, Sulochana
Mitthu Devi
Nepal, Ratna
Nepali, Basu
Nirmala
Ojha, Bishnu
Pandey, Binda
Pasawan, Devi
Paudel, Meena
Paudel, Sabitri
Poda, Maiya
Pode, Junu
Paudel, Betrabati
Pradhan, Keshari
Pradhan, Sadhana
Pradhan, Sahana
Prasai, Gaura
Pyakurel, Santosh
Rai, Kamala
Ramlaxmi
Rana, Gauri
Rana, Narayani
Rana, Rubi
Rana, Sanu
Ranamagar, Yeshoda
Regmi, Shubhadra
Saraswati Devi
Shah, Rajendralaxmi
Shah, Silbandi
Sharma, Kunta
Shestha, Anju
Shestha, Kamala
Shestha, Kanaklata
Shestha, Snehalata
Shrestha, Bindabashini
Shrestha, Champa
Shrestha, Jadiswari
Shrestha, Juneli
Shrestha, Renuka
Shrestha, Rupa
Shrestha, Sabitri
Shrestha, Shanta
Shretha, Nisha
Thapa, Bimala
Thapa, Renu
Timilsina, Ambika
Timilsina, Goma
Tuladhar, Devnani
Umadevi
Upadhyaya, Jayanti
Upadhyaya, Nalini
Yadav, Muneswari
Yadav, Sonabati
Yami,Hisila
57
Interviewees:
Adhikari, Manmohan
Adhikari, Sadhana
Bajracharya, Mangal Maya
Bajracharya, Pranmaya
Dwanju, Meera
Koirala, Girija Prasad
Lama, Sharada
Nakarmi, Nanimaiya
Nepal, Nanda
Nepali, Ram Maya
Pasawan, Devi
Ranamagar, Durgadevi
Ranamagar,Yeshoda
Shrestha, Sabitri
Shrestha, Shanta
Shrestha, Snehalata
January, 1998
June, 2000
December. 1998
March, 2000
March, 1999
January, 1998
March, 1999
September, 2000
December. 1998
June, 2000
December. 1998
December. 1998
December. 1998
August, 2000
August, 2000
August, 2000
Acknowledgement
Koirala, Om
Yadav, Yogendra
Munnilal Shakya,
Bhandari, Bidhyadevi
Pokharel, Menaka
Yadav, Yogilal
Giri, Balaram
Astalazxmi
Manandhar, Sulochana
Friends from GEFONT's affiliates
Reference cited
Author
Materials
Publisher/Date
Mahila Mukti
ANWA, 1984-94
Mulyngkan (back issues)
Mulyangkan Pariwar
Nepalko Communist
Shahid
1995
Subedi , Pratibha Bibidh Pakshama Nepali Nari Sasha Prakashan, 1994
Netritwama Mahila
Insec, 1997
Prabhat, Bishnu Matritwa
Insec, 1997
Kisan Jagaran
ANPA, 1987
Ojha, Ghananath Nepalma Mahila
Pairabi Prakashan, 2000
GEFONT's Publications
GEFONT
58
Glossary
Adarsha women's Association : A name of Women's Association
Anasanni Bajei
Arun
Badahakim
Basnet
Beluwa Banjari
: A place of Dang-Nepal
Bhimsen Thapa
Bhujungkhola
Brahmin
Burmeli Tole
: A place in Biratnagar
Chisapani
: A place of Makwanpur-Nepal
Danti Bhoteni
59
Daura Suruwal
Delhi Agreement
Dharna
: sit-in programme
Dingla
Dulalni Bajei
Gairhe Khatte
: A place of Dang-Nepal
Gherao
: Picketting
Grihalaxmis
: Housewives
Guheswori
Hadtaliki Ma
Jamindar
: Landlord
Jhapa Bidroha
Jhora
Kanya Mandir
Karjahi
Khukhuris
Lathi-charge
Mahila Mukti
Matritwa
Mukhiya
Narayanhiti
Nari samiti
: Committee of women
Nati Dai
Nebico
Newar
Panchas
Panchayat System
Pandav Bibaha
: Polyandry
Pandit
60
Parijat
Pashupati Nath
Piskar
: A place of Sidhupalchowk-Nepal
Poi-tokuwi
Rana
Rastra bank
Rastriya Nachghar
: National Theatre
Rastriya Panchayat
Sandesh
Sati pratha
Satyagraha
Seti River
ShreePanchami
Singha Durbar
SLC
Tamang
Tamsuk
Teej
: Women's festival
Tharu
Tikule, Jogbani
Tri-Chandra College
61