The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation has been observed since 2012. Female genital mutilation is the name given by the United Nations to female genital mutilation. The United Nations has declared that female genital mutilation will be eradicated by 2030. UNFPA and UNICEF (UNFPA-UNICEF) have jointly launched a global campaign to eliminate prostitution. “Partnership with Men and Boys to transform Social and Gender Norms to End FGM”. That’s Moto for 2023.
Fornication in women
Chelakarma is a change in the structure of the female sexual organ. Chelakarma is the cutting or mutilation of a woman’s genitals in whole or in part, other than for medical reasons. Their argument is that by cutting the skin of the clitoris and vagina in the female sexual organ, sexual feelings will decrease. Another argument is to clean the genitals of women. There are reports that more than 10 crore women have been subjected to chelakarma.
how
Elderly women perform chela karma using weapons like knives, blades and chisels. This is not done in hospitals as it is an illegal activity. Chelakarma is said to be practiced not only among Muslim women but also among women of Christian and Jewish faiths. Chelakarma is often done by the parents. There is still a debate on whether or not chalakarma is compulsory in Islam.
Consequences that follow
Many health problems such as menstrual irregularity, severe pain in the genitals, excessive bleeding, problems in pregnancy, pain during urination, infections are seen in girls who undergo chelakarma. It can also lead to serious problems with deteriorating mental health. After chelakarma, only a small hole is left for menstrual bleeding and urination. In some places, the skins on the two sides are joined and the rest of the hole is sutured. Only after the wedding is the stitch removed. This is to prevent women from masturbating and having sex before marriage.
Globally
Chelakarma is practiced in about 30 countries in Africa and the Middle East. Chalakarma is widely practiced among women in immigrant communities in Asia, Latin American countries, Western Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. According to reports, this kind of chelakarma is taking place in countries like Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Egypt and Mali. Studies say that more than 13 crore women have been subjected to chela karma.
to wipe away
Elimination of chela karma requires systematic and coordinated activities. It is essential to educate the society. Actions on human rights, gender equality, sexuality education, etc. should also be focused. Priority should be given to the basic needs of women and girls who suffer the consequences of chela karma.
The United Nations has called on organizations and clubs around the world to work against prostitution. It is estimated that the achievement can be achieved by coordinating the activities under the leadership of men in grassroots organizations such as health workers, law enforcers, religious leaders and social workers. This will pave the way for the protection of women and girls. There is also a call to campaign on new media using the hashtag #MenEndFGM.
Sustaining these gains is imperative while grappling with infectious diseases including Covid, climate change and more human-made crises.
Achieved
Since 2008, UNFPA-UNICEF has jointly led campaigns to end female genital mutilation. A great deal of progress has been achieved through years of work. More than 6 million girls and women were able to provide prevention, protection and care related to chelakarma. Public announcement that 45 million people will give up Chelakarma. Reports have also emerged that more than 532,158 girls have been prevented from being subjected to chelakarma.