Neeta Sodha, an immigrant from Pakistan who was recently given Indian citizenship is all set to contest panchayat elections in Rajasthan’s Natwara.’
Neeta came to India 18 years ago and settled here. She found India a safe place and decided to stay here. She has a desire to work for women in order to empower them for leading a happy life. She wants to make women aware of their rights. Although she has been staying in Rajasthan, India for 18 years, she received Indian citizenship just 4 months ago.
“My father-in-law has been an active member in Panchayat and guides me in my political journey. I came to India 18 years back but I was given nationality just 4 months ago and now I am fighting for the Sarpanch elections,” said Sodha.
Neeta said that she wants to make sure that there should be proper education in the village. There are many immigrants who came from Pakistan and Bangladesh are still waiting for Indian citizenship. After the Citizenship Amendment Act came into existence, all migrants who have come to India from three countries named Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan after facing religious persecution, will be given citizenship.
Neeta further said, “I will try my best to take women forward. I will work for better education and hospitals. Most importantly, I will ensure that women are given their wages for better growth and prosperity of the village.”
Sharing her experience in India, she said, “India has a better living condition for women and education than Pakistan. Since the time I have come here I have received great support from the people which helped me to move forward.”
