Kozhikode: P. Viji, who was recently included by the BBC in the list of 100 inspiring and influential women in the world in 2018, will be given a civic reception by 'Penkootu,' the organisation working for women's welfare, here on December 2.
Viji, 50, tailor-turned activist from Kozhikode, had won for thousands of women in sales outlets in Kerala the right to sit while at work.
She had formed 'Penkoottu' in 2009 for women working in SM Street here to press for toilets for the women. Viji then found that women working in textile outlets were not permitted to sit.
They formed the 'Asanghatitha Mekhala Thozhilali Union (AMTU)' for workers in the unorganised sector, and got it registered in 2015.
It was the AMTU that organised the 'Sitting Struggle' in 2014, with women taking out a march on the International Labour Day. The state government amended the relevant law in July this year and directed all shops and establishments to provide seating arrangements and other facilities for women workers.
Viji says that her journey to question the prevailing discrimination faced by women in workplace will continue.
Anjali, a member of the association, said that Viji deserved to be honoured worldwide. Her fight for the rights of women in workplace was acknowledged throughout the country and outside. 'Penkootu' will also release a documentary highlighting the activities of Viji and the organization.
