Maneka Gandhi urges states to effectively implement PWDVA 2005

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : To provide immediate protection and relief to women facing violence within families,   Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi, on July 12, 2018, wrote to all Chief Ministers to ensure that the provisions of the ‘Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, are effectively implemented.

The Minister has particularly urged the States that sufficient number of Protection Officers (POs) be appointed with independent charge of the Act and that 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 POs,” she said, according to a PIB release.

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.

“Every woman has the right to lead a life free from violence. I urge you to personally initiate action to prevent violence against women and ensure protection of the rights of women through effective implementation of the Act,” the Minister added.