Maneka writes to chief ministers to ensure effective implementation of domestic violence act

Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi has written to chief ministers to ensure that the domestic violence act is effectively implemented and urged for appointment of more protection officials.

"Every woman has the right to lead a life free from violence. I urge you (chief ministers) to personally initiate action to prevent violence against women and ensure protection of the rights of women through effective implementation of the Act," Gandhi said.

She particularly urged the states that sufficient number of Protection Officers (POs) be appointed with independent charge of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, and their details be made available in public domain so that they were accessible to any aggrieved woman.

"It has come to my notice that in most states, officers of other departments are given this responsibility as an additional charge. Considering the practical situation of how feasible it is for a woman to come out of her home to register a complaint, it is important that we appoint more Protection Officers (POs), Gandhi said.

The Minister has also requested that a separate budget be allocated for the smooth functioning of POs, providing support to survivors, capacity building for staff and for generating awareness.

Gandhi has further mentioned that for the convenience of women, Form IV of the PWDVA act which enumerates the rights of the women, be translated into local languages.