Bengaluru, April 15: Mary Beth Sanate from Churachandpur district in Manipur was honoured with the Women Human Rights Defenders Award at a national-level ceremony held in Bengaluru on April 14, in recognition of her contributions to the promotion of human rights and the empowerment of marginalised communities.
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| Mary Beth Sanate receives the Women Human Rights Defenders Award during a ceremony organised by the National Federation of Dalit Women and Blue Dawn in Bengaluru. |
The award ceremony was jointly organised by the National Federation of Dalit Women (NFDW) and Blue Dawn, organisations that work to advance social justice, gender equality, and the protection of human rights across India. The event recognised the achievements of tribal women leaders, grassroots activists, movement builders, human rights defenders, development practitioners, and writers who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.
A total of 30 women from different parts of the country were selected to receive the prestigious award this year, with Mary Beth Sanate representing Manipur among the distinguished recipients. The recognition highlights her commitment to advocating for the rights of vulnerable communities and her efforts towards social transformation and inclusive development.
The award was presented by noted personalities Banu Mushtaq and Ruth Manorama, both widely recognised for their longstanding work in the fields of human rights, gender justice, and social advocacy. In addition to a commemorative memento, each awardee received a cash prize in appreciation of their dedicated service and contributions to society.
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Organisers stated that the Women Human Rights Defenders Award aims to honour women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and commitment in addressing issues affecting disadvantaged and underrepresented communities. They noted that the award also seeks to encourage greater recognition of women working at the grassroots level to promote justice, equality, and human dignity.
The recognition of Mary Beth Sanate has been welcomed by well-wishers and members of civil society in Manipur, who described the honour as a proud achievement for the state. They said the award reflects the important role played by women human rights defenders in promoting peace, empowering communities, and building a more inclusive and equitable society.
