"NO" should never cost a woman her face, her dignity, or her life.

Yesterday, I sat in a session that left me shaken. I met acid attack survivors—women who were brutally attacked by their own husband or lover for saying NO. No to control. No to abuse. No to forced love. Their scars tell a story of cruelty, but their eyes? Their eyes tell a story of resilience.

These women refused to let their pain define them. Today, they stand strong as entrepreneurs, running a successful spices and pickles business, proving that their strength is far greater than the violence inflicted upon them. They are not just surviving; they are thriving.

Today, on Women's Day, I ask: Why does a simple "NO" still come at such a brutal cost for women? Why must they fight for rights, equality, and empowerment, which should be fundamental?

We celebrate today, not just for progress made, but for battles still being fought. For a world where saying NO doesn’t lead to suffering, but is simply a choice, respected and accepted.

Let’s not just acknowledge women today—let’s amplify their voices, their strength, and their right to live without fear. Because NO means NO. Always.