Offer Shadi Bhagya to devadasi children: Padma Shri awardee

Belagavi: Padma Shri awardee and social activist Sitavva Jodatti has urged the state government to extend the Shadi Bhagya scheme to devadasi children
This would help such children shape their future, said the CEO of Mahila Abhivruddhi Mattu Samrakshana Sansthe (MASS) after being felicitated at an International Women’s Day programme organized by the LIC Belagavi division office on Saturday. Jodatti said that she has already written to chief minister Siddaramaiah regarding the issue.

Sitavva, who became a victim of the devadasi system at the age of six, said she had been fighting tooth and nail to eradicate the practice through awareness campaigns. The activist said that she is working hard to prevent the trafficking of girls and children and checking child marriages.

Jodatti said she was shocked to find her name in the Padma Shri awardees list, terming it the biggest moment of her life.

Dr Anupama Joshi was the chief guest while GV Kulkarni presided over of the programme. Jyoti Hanchinmani, Shruti Naik and Rashmita Kowadkar were also felicitated on the occasion.