Hon’ble Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Mrs. Vijaya Rahatkar, today heard grievances of women in more than 45 cases during the ‘National Commission for Women at Your Doorstep’ public hearing programme held in Patiala and issued necessary directions to the concerned officials.
She emphasized that providing accessible, sensitive, and timely justice to women remains a top priority of the Commission. During the public hearing, cases related to domestic violence, dowry harassment, sexual offences, suicide, and other women-related issues were taken up.
In several cases, directions for immediate action were issued to the concerned authorities on the spot. Deputy Commissioner Patiala, Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, and Senior Superintendent of Police, Mr. Varun Sharma, were also present on the occasion.
Interacting with the media, Mrs. Rahatkar stated that the use of derogatory language against women, character assassination, and insensitive behaviour are unacceptable. She called upon all departments to adopt a sensitive and accountable approach while dealing with matters concerning women.
Following the public hearing, she chaired a review meeting with Deputy Commissioners and senior police officers of the Patiala Division. The meeting focused on the speedy disposal of women-related cases, effective coordination between the police and civil administration, and regular monitoring of complaints.
Mrs. Rahatkar suggested implementing the Commission’s ‘Tere Mere Sapne’ initiative at the district level and urged officials to ensure that the benefits of women welfare and empowerment schemes reach beneficiaries at the grassroots level. She also expressed concern over issues affecting women due to drug abuse and the growing incidence of cybercrime, while assuring the Commission’s full support in addressing these challenges.
In addition, Hon’ble Chairperson Mrs. Vijaya Rahatkar addressed a workshop on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (POSH) at Thapar University. She also participated in an Anti-Human Trafficking programme at the ITBP campus and felicitated six girls for their outstanding achievements in the fields of education, sports, and skill development.
Through her various engagements and interactions during the visit, Mrs. Rahatkar laid special emphasis on women’s safety, empowerment, institutional accountability, and the need for a sensitive and responsive administration.