ITANAGAR : NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Friday urged greater awareness, sensitivity, and coordinated action among stakeholders to strengthen women’s safety and access to justice in Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing a two-day awareness and training programme for protection officers, one-stop centre (OSC) personnel, counsellors, and other officials here, Rahatkar said many women continue to suffer in silence due to social pressure, financial dependency and lack of awareness about their rights.
“Incidents of domestic violence often remain hidden within homes, making the role of protection officers and support systems even more critical,” she said, stressing that frontline institutions must be equipped to provide timely support and relief.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) chief underlined the importance of legal literacy for officials engaged in women-centric services, and urged comprehensive knowledge of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, the POCSO Act and other related laws.
“Without adequate understanding of these laws, it will be difficult to provide effective relief and justice to women in distress,” she said.
Pointing to the geographical challenges of the state, the NCW chief said Arunachal Pradesh’s remote and hilly terrain requires stronger institutional mechanisms and better-trained personnel so that women in every corner of the state can access justice and support services.
Describing the training as more than a formal event, she said it aimed to strengthen the capacity, knowledge and effectiveness of OSCs, protection officers and associated departments.
She called for stronger coordination among the women and child development department, state commission for women, police, legal services authorities, district administrations and all related institutions to ensure a comprehensive and timely response to women in crisis.
Rahatkar stressed the need for an improved crisis response mechanism, warning that delays in handling cases can lead to severe consequences.
She encouraged the sharing of practical experiences and best practices among officials and suggested forming dedicated communication groups for counsellors, case workers, medical support staff and protection officers to facilitate better coordination and learning.
Reaffirming the commitment of the state women’s commission towards safety, protection, rehabilitation and empowerment of women, she urged institutions to become more sensitive, responsive and accountable so that survivors can approach the justice system with confidence.
The programme, organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women in collaboration with the NCW, covered legal provisions, protection mechanisms, mental health and inter-departmental coordination.
Technical sessions included a presentation by Yakang Nani, State Mission Coordinator, SHEW, WCD department, on OSC objectives, functions and responsibilities.
APSCW counsellor Dr Leeyir Ete spoke on mental health and the importance of counselling support, while additional SP and SDPO Naharlagun Rishi Longdo highlighted the role of police in supporting survivors and coordinating with OSCs.
Techi Nech, panel advocate of Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority, elaborated on legal aspects, including domestic violence and the POCSO Act.
Dr Pallavi Boro, associate professor, conducted a session on reproductive health and menstrual hygiene.
The two-day programme concluded with active participation from stakeholders, officials and OSC personnel, reaffirming collective commitment towards women’s safety and welfare in the state. (Source: DIPR/PTI)
