In the bustling streets of Kozhikode, Kerala, Viji Palithodi's journey from a humble tailor to a stalwart advocate for women's rights is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a struggle against a basic lack of facilities has evolved into a crusade for gender equality, reshaping the lives of many. 

Palithodi's pivotal role in founding the Asangaditha Mekhala Thozhilali Union (AMTU) in 2014 was born from the grim reality of inadequate toilet facilities for women working in the shops along SM Street. “There were numerous buildings, but none had toilets,” Palithodi recalls. “Women faced unimaginable difficulties. Despite our repeated pleas to shop owners and officials, nothing changed.” 

Her dedication didn’t end there. In 2009, Palithodi initiated Penkootu (women for each other), a platform to address severe human rights violations faced by women workers. Despite resistance, including from trade unions, she pressed on, eventually establishing AMTU. The relentless efforts culminated in a significant victory: the 2018 amendment to the Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, mandating restroom facilities for female workers. 

The struggle didn’t stop at toilets. The issue of ‘Right to Sit’ became another battleground. “It was a challenge getting laws amended to ensure seating for workers. Initially, the law allowed sitting only during breaks, but these breaks were short and insufficient,” Palithodi notes. Her tireless advocacy led to regulations mandating at least an hour’s break every four hours, a crucial step toward improving working conditions.