Seminar on Women’s Mental Health Organised by the Centre for Human Rights and Duties, PU
Chandigarh, March 11, 2025
Centre for Human Rights and Duties, Panjab University, Chandigarh, today organised a National Seminar on “Women’s Mental Health in the North-Western Region of India: Trauma and Healing“. The seminar was sponsored by the ICSSR, NWRC. It brought together psychological experts, scholars, academicians, activists and mental health practitioners to discuss critical issues affecting women’s mental health and well-being.
In the inaugural session, the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Rumina Sethi, Dean of University Instruction, Panjab University, addressed the topic of menstrual leave, discussing its importance in the workplace and educational institutions. She also shared thought-provoking excerpts from ‘The Other Side of Silenc’e by Urvashi Butalia, linking historical and social perspectives on gender issues.
Prof. (Dr.) Adarsh Kohli, Former Professor at PGIMER, provided insights into mental disorders and explained the differences in the brains of men and women. Her talk delved into scientific research on cognitive and emotional variations, shedding light on mental health concerns specific to each gender.
Ms. Rashmi Anand, Founder of Women of Elements Trust and a domestic violence survivor, shared her personal experiences and the work she has been doing in providing free legal aid to individuals who cannot afford it. Having counseled 53 villages in Haryana, she narrated powerful real-life stories, emphasizing the need for awareness, support systems, and legal interventions for survivors of domestic violence.
Prof. (Dr.) Simrit Kahlon, Dean, Student Welfare (Women), Panjab University, discussed various forms of mental violence faced by girls in universities and hostels. She addressed issues of psychological abuse, academic pressure, and the need for a safe and supportive environment for female students.
Prof. (Dr.) Upasana Joshi, Honorary Director, ICSSR NWRC, spoke on the importance of balancing work-life and its connection to subjective well-being.
Prof. Namita Gupta, Chairperson Centre for Human Rights and Dutiesemphasized the significance of the seminar in addressing contemporary challenges in social sciences and human rights.
Dr. Upneet Mangat, Faculty, Centre for Human Rights and Duties expressed gratitude to the esteemed speakers and participants for their valuable contributions.
Following the inaugural session, a panel discussed was held, chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Deepti Gupta, from the Department of English and Cultural Studies, Panjab University. Dr. Preeti Jindal, Director of the Touch Clinic, emphasised that emotional strength and healthy discussions are necessary for good mental health. She highlighted the importance of controlling emotions during conflicts and taking time to resolve issues.
Ms. Ashia Sahota, Mrs. Universe South Pacific Asia & Mrs. India (Woman of Substance) 2023, shared her personal journey of resilience. She expressed concerns over the fact that 80% of today’s youth do not want to get married or be in relationships due to the fear of broken marriages and failed relationships.
Ms. Adrija Chakraborty, a trauma specialist and survivor of child sexual abuse and an abusive marriage, stressed the importance of education and self-empowerment for women. She stated that women need to be aware of the tools they can use to overcome trauma. She also emphasised the need to build a supportive community and set boundaries in relationships to protect one’s mental health from external influences.
Ms. Amandeep Kaur, an acid attack survivor, courageously shared her experience of domestic violence. She urged women to recognise red flags in relationships and take action early, stating, “If you feel that your husband or partner is not right, don’t wait—leave them. It will be for the best.” The session concluded with a question-and-answer segment.
In the afternoon, parallel technical sessions more than 60 researchers and academicians presented their research papers on various aspects of women’s mental health, trauma, and healing. The discussions emphasised the need for accessible mental health services, community support, legal reforms, and policy interventions to address women’s mental health challenges effectively.
