Kolkata, April 5 (NationPress) As West Bengal approaches its Assembly elections, women from various sectors have voiced their demand for the next administration to prioritize job creation, safety, and long-term empowerment, while enhancing existing welfare initiatives.

For numerous women in West Bengal, their aspirations are multifaceted. They advocate for progress but also highlight significant gaps. Over the years, their demands have become more defined and precise.

While initiatives like Lakshmir Bhandar and Kanyashree are acknowledged for positively impacting women's lives by alleviating financial strain and ensuring girls remain in school, many assert that empowerment must go beyond mere assistance.

“Women in Bengal are indeed gaining more empowerment, especially in education and professional fields. Programs like Lakshmir Bhandar and Kanyashree have provided financial and educational backing to numerous women and young girls, which is commendable. However, true long-term empowerment necessitates more opportunities, awareness, and equitable access to career advancement,” stated renowned singer Ujjaini Mukherjee in an interview with IANS.

In the realm of culture, historically one of West Bengal's strongest identities, there is a prevailing sentiment that talent is outpacing institutional backing.

“As an artist, I urge the upcoming government to focus on cultural infrastructure, equitable opportunities for artists, and a transparent support framework for the creative sector. Bengal boasts immense talent and cultural depth, yet the entertainment industry requires more structured platforms, funding, and national exposure. Promoting original music, supporting independent artists, and establishing professional ecosystems could greatly enhance the sector,” expressed the singer.

She also advocated for pension schemes for senior artists and technicians, alongside accessible healthcare facilities, particularly for those unable to work due to health issues, aging, or unemployment.

Simultaneously, safety remains a pivotal topic. Despite acknowledging the steps taken to improve law enforcement, many believe that implementation must be more robust and consistent.

Suchismita Bagchi, a senior figure in an educational organization, remarked to IANS, “The government must ensure that citizens trust law enforcement agencies. The police should be empowered to act independently and impartially. It is time for them to move beyond political affiliations.”

She further expressed the hope that the next administration upholds transparency in budget allocations, utilization, and implementation.

“The government needs to be open. For clear budget allocation and scheme execution, it should publish a white paper regularly. Moreover, a healthy environment is essential to foster new businesses and investment opportunities. Schools that have shut down over the years must be reopened, and teacher recruitment should be conducted transparently to fill vacant positions in schools, colleges, and universities,” she added.

According to her, a course on civic responsibilities and rights for children should be integrated into the school curriculum.

For the new government, the challenge lies in moving beyond merely offering financial aid through schemes and establishing systems that ensure sustained progress over time.

In an interview with IANS, entrepreneur, engineering consultant, and singer, Anindita Maita Das, stated, “While I support programs like Kanyashree, mere financial assistance cannot truly empower women. Overreliance on government aid could deter women from pursuing opportunities, ultimately causing more harm than good. Schemes should not be driven by vote-bank politics.”

She emphasized that the forthcoming government must take decisive actions to prevent the younger generation from migrating out of the state in search of job opportunities.

“A significant number of youths are leaving Bengal due to insufficient job prospects. To retain this workforce, large-scale industrialization is critical. If the government creates jobs, engineering graduates will be less likely to leave. I also oppose the privatization of education, particularly in private medical colleges where merit is often overlooked in admissions,” she remarked.

Homemaker Stuti Karmakar emphasized the need for recognizing women’s rights. “It is imperative that women are allowed to enjoy their rights, including the right to work in a safe environment. Their safety and security must never be compromised. We cannot afford to witness incidents like RG Kar again. Every woman should feel secure in her workplace, whether in the public or private sector,” stated the 36-year-old.