Training on Domestic Violence and POSH Laws Held in Chhatrapur
News Desk,Odishabarta
“Remaining Silent Against Injustice Is the Biggest Crime”: Additional Collector
ICC Formation and ‘SHe-Box’ Registration Mandatory for Institutions with 10 or More Employees
Chhatrapur, September 8:A one-day district-level training workshop on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act was organised at the Jaugada Conference Hall of the Zilla Parishad in Chhatrapur on Tuesday.
The programme was organised by the District Administration and District Social Welfare Department with the objective of protecting women’s rights and ensuring their safety.
Addressing the workshop as the chief guest, Ganjam Additional District Collector Sachidananda Nayak said, “Remaining silent knowingly against injustice is the biggest crime.” He stressed that prevention is the best measure to protect women rather than waiting for problems to occur.
He emphasised the need for formation of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in all eligible institutions, display of awareness signages and timely disposal of complaints.
According to the information shared at the workshop, 540 institutions in Ganjam district have so far constituted ICCs. Formation of an ICC and registration on the SHe-Box portal are mandatory for all establishments having 10 or more employees.
Each ICC should have at least four members, while complaints are required to be investigated within 90 days as per the applicable provisions. Violations of the provisions may attract penalties ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, as stated at the programme.
Berhampur DSP Shrutiprabha Pradhan said that merely having stringent laws is not enough and that women must also be aware of their rights and raise their voices against injustice.
Ganjam DSP Jyotsna Kaur urged women to overcome fear and social stigma and become aware of the provisions relating to the Domestic Violence Act and POSH Act.
Chhatrapur SDMO Dr. Alekh Pradhan said providing women with a safe and dignified environment is the moral responsibility of every citizen.
District Culture Officer Aditi Acharya said women should not be considered weak, adding that they are capable, self-reliant and empowered.
The workshop also highlighted support services available for women facing violence and distress. One Stop Centres, Shakti Sadan and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) are functioning in the district to assist women in need.
People were urged to seek assistance through 112 in emergencies, Women Helpline 181, and Tele-MANAS 14416 for mental-health support.
The programme was coordinated by Geetanjali Maharana, Coordinator of the District Women Empowerment Centre. CDPOs and supervisors from all blocks, representatives of Shakti Sadan and members of various voluntary organisations attended the workshop.
