Rajya Sabha Chairman Mohammed Hamid Ansari today lamented increasing cases of violence against women and girls. Making a reference in the House on International Women's Day, Mr Ansari regretted marginalisation of women and discrimination against them is still manifest in the lack of freedom to pursue the career of their own choices, lack of equal social status and financial independence. <br/><br/>He asked people to re-dedicate collectively towards making the cherished goal of women empowerment with positive esteem a living reality. He said women must be assured of their Constitutional rights for sustainable development of the country and the world. Mr Ansari said, India has, from time immemorial, honoured, respected and celebrated women and acknowledged their status as equal partners. He, however, said it is unfortunate that over the years people seem to have misplaced country's rich tradition and legacy.