Former President Pratibha Patil at the Puri Jagannath temple on Thursday. Picture by Sarat Patra

Cuttack, Oct. 10: Former President Pratibha Devisingh Patil was here today to attend an event hosted by the Vishwanath Pasayat Birth Centenary Committee. She reached the Puri Raj Bhavan on Wednesday and paid a visit to the Jagannath temple this morning. The only woman to have become President spoke exclusively to The Telegraph on women issues and life as the first citizen of the country and after it.

How does it feel to be in Odisha, especially Cuttack and Puri?

I love this place. Visiting Puri is always special for Lord Jagannath. Cuttack, as well as many other regions of Odisha, are full of heritage and culture. I really love the people here who are very friendly and well-behaved. I have come here many times as a politician and even as the President. Every visit was memorable for me.

How is it being the only woman President of the country?

As President, you get to travel the length and breadth of the country and see the real India and her people. It was an eye-opener in many ways as I got an opportunity to not only visit the places but also meet women from various regions in different situations.

Being a woman, I could feel more close to the women of my country and it was a unique experience when they shared their agonies and issues with me. They could share with me their unexpressed difficulties. I always spent as much time as possible to listen to their problems.

What is your take on the present situation of women in the country where incidents of assault and exploitation of women have become frequent?

It is an extremely sad situation in that context. The assaulters are not only wronging women but also our culture that teaches us to respect women. It is painful to see our culture being pulled down this way. Though women are doing well in their respective spheres, the insecurity they feel in our society must be removed.

Do you believe that strict laws are a good solution to keep women safe?

Strict laws are definitely good but unless implemented, they have no value. From the government to social organisations to intellectuals and visionaries as well as the public, all must come together to ensure that laws are implemented timely. Moreover, I feel our traditional thinking must change when it comes to a few aspects. Also, our legal machinery needs to be upgraded, as it is not functioning well. We need reforms to bring justice and ensure equal rights to women.

How is life after leaving the President’s office last year?

My life is quite relaxed now. I give more time to my family, especially my grandchildren. But most of all, I find time for my commitments to social work. Life will go on only when you carry on your work for the society. That is what keeps me busy.