NCW Chief Demands Faster Disposal Of Trafficking Cases In Odisha

Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Vijaya Rahatkar, has urged authorities in Odisha to expedite the disposal of pending trafficking and gender-based violence cases to ensure swift justice and strengthen the overall response system for women’s safety and security.

The review meeting was held on Thursday at the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, where Rahatkar assessed ongoing state-level initiatives aimed at improving women’s welfare. She emphasized the need for strict enforcement of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, commonly known as the POSH Act, along with better coordination between departments at both state and district levels to ensure effective implementation of protective laws.

During the discussion, Rahatkar also suggested the establishment of “Tere Mere Sapne,” a pre-marital counselling and communication centre in every district of Odisha. She said such centres could help promote healthier family relationships and contribute to long-term social stability. The proposal is part of broader efforts to address gender-based issues through preventive and awareness-driven approaches.

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The NCW chief appreciated the Odisha government for its institutional mechanisms and women-centric programmes, noting their positive impact on safety and empowerment. She highlighted the success of initiatives such as the Subhadra scheme and Lakhpati Didi programme under Mission Shakti, which aim to improve women’s economic independence and leadership opportunities.

Rahatkar also acknowledged several digital and community-based initiatives, including the Shakti App developed with support from the United Nations Population Fund, which enables faster, technology-driven responses to cases of gender-based violence. She further praised programmes like Advika and Shaktishree for their role in empowering adolescents and young women through education and skill development.

Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg briefed the delegation on a range of state welfare measures, including Mission Shakti cafes, Poshan Abhiyan, creche services, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, and various skill development programmes. She said these initiatives reflect the government’s continued focus on improving women’s health, education, and economic participation across the state.

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