The topmost echelons of the management of L.I.C of India consist of many women. Unfortunately, while they are apparently interested in women's empowerment, (rather, just talking about it!) their actions belie their attitude. There are some who deliver powerful lectures on women's empowerment but when it comes to actually walking the talk, develop cold feet and coolly look the other way!
My tryst with the R.T.I appeal to the organization for getting my arrears and answers to queries; proved the above-mentioned sad truth. If I'd have got all my answers, I'd have also felt empowered, but alas, these ladies have forgotten the very meaning of empowerment, by choosing to be the Devil's Advocate (literally)!
True empowerment can be attained only by supporting others. If ladies deprive other ladies (and men!) of their legally rightful dues and also justify it, it's a matter of concern and shame. Surely, they can use their own sense of judgment, reasoning and logic to make the men in their team aware of their flawed and unjust decisions instead of towing their line and trying to save their jobs and maintaining the status quo!
These ladies have not shown the slightest bit of support to the cause of the resigning employees; arbitrarily and unjustly not being given their arrears and difference in retirement benefits, by the management.
Interestingly, my letter regarding this injustice to the Finance Minister of India, Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman's Office was met with a stony silence. Ditto, the Prime Minister and his Office! Whom should we approach now? Courts? When the Supreme Court has already declared the 1 B Clause which repudiates wage revision arrears to be ultra vires? PIL? Of course.
So one can just conclude that women can be women's best friends and worst foes too!
Once we get all our dues from the Corporation, I will be filling the form for Deha-daan (body-donation). That is my vow.
In case of my earlier demise, my family will be donating my body/organs to my chosen hospital.
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While euphorically celebrating Women's Day today in all offices of L.I.C of India, government offices and private offices, institutions, etc. let's not forget the immense contribution of all ladies who strive to make better lives for themselves and their beloved ones, brave many a storm and emerge victorious. Here's to Stree Shakti in all its forms! More power to you and may you always go from strength to strength.
My dear long-suffering friends,
Rest assured, we will soon get our dues along with compound interest from L.I.C of India. I can feel it in my bones! Just keep the JOSH high!
Priya
