Itanagar, May 29: National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Friday emphasized the urgent need for greater awareness, sensitivity and inter-departmental coordination among stakeholders working for women’s safety and justice in Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing a training and capacity-building programme for Protection Officers, One Stop Centre (OSC) personnel, counsellors and other officials at DK Convention Hall in Itanagar, Rahatkar highlighted the crucial role played by frontline institutions in ensuring timely support and justice for women.
She observed that many women continue to suffer in silence due to social pressure, financial dependency and lack of awareness about their rights. Incidents of domestic violence, she said, often remain hidden within homes, making the role of Protection Officers and support systems even more significant.
Stressing the importance of legal awareness, Rahatkar said officials associated with women-centric services must possess comprehensive knowledge of laws such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, POCSO Act and other legislations related to women’s rights and protection.
“Without adequate understanding of these laws, it becomes difficult to provide effective relief and justice to women in distress,” she remarked.
Highlighting the geographical challenges of Arunachal Pradesh, she noted that remote and hilly regions require stronger institutional mechanisms and better-trained personnel to ensure that women in every corner of the state can access justice and support services.
Describing the programme as more than a formal event, Rahatkar said the initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity, knowledge and effectiveness of One Stop Centres, Protection Officers and associated departments.
She further called for stronger coordination among the Women and Child Development Department, State Commission for Women, police, legal services authorities, district administration and all related institutions to ensure a comprehensive and timely response to women in crisis.
Stressing the need for an improved crisis response mechanism, she said delays in handling cases could lead to severe consequences. She also encouraged sharing of practical experiences and best practices among officials and suggested formation of dedicated communication groups for counsellors, case workers, medical support staff and Protection Officers for better coordination and learning.
Reaffirming the commitment of the State Women Commission towards women’s safety, protection, rehabilitation and empowerment, Rahatkar said institutions must become more sensitive, responsive and accountable so that women can approach the justice system with confidence and trust.
The programme, organised by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women in collaboration with the NCW, concluded successfully on Friday after a two-day awareness-cum-training session for One Stop Centres.
The technical sessions covered several important themes relating to the functioning of OSCs and women’s welfare.
Yakang Nani, State Mission Coordinator, SHEW, WCD Department, delivered a presentation on the objectives, functions, services and responsibilities of OSC staff. Dr Leeyir Ete, Counsellor, APSCW, spoke on mental health among women, highlighting the importance of psychological well-being and counselling support.
Rishi Longdo, Addl. SP and SDPO, Naharlagun, highlighted the role of police in supporting survivors and ensuring coordination with OSCs, while Techi Nech, Panel Advocate of APSLSA, elaborated on legal aspects concerning domestic violence, the POCSO Act and BNS in relation to women.
Dr Pallavi Boro, Associate Professor, also conducted a session on reproductive health and menstrual hygiene.
The programme witnessed active participation from stakeholders, officials, counsellors and OSC personnel, reaffirming the collective commitment towards women’s safety, empowerment and welfare in the state.
A seven-member delegation from the NCW is currently on a four-day official visit to Arunachal Pradesh from May 27 to 30.
Later, the teams of NCW and APSCW interacted with women at IG Park and heard their grievances and cases.