Bhubaneswar: A significant state-level workshop on gender-based violence and psychological care of victims was organized today at the State Women and Child Development Institute Hall in Bhubaneswar. The event, held in collaboration with the Odisha State Women’s Commission, saw active participation from a wide array of stakeholders dedicated to combating gender-based violence.
Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Parvati Parida, attending as the chief guest, reiterated the government’s firm stance, stating a “zero tolerance policy towards gender-based violence.” She emphasized the crucial need to empower victims residing in centers like Sakhi-One Stop Centers through skill development. This, she stressed, is vital for their integration into mainstream society, the revival of their self-confidence, and enabling them to secure a livelihood. Smt. Parida also advised police personnel to approach and resolve cases related to gender-based violence with utmost sensitivity.
Smt. Shubha Sharma, Principal Secretary, Women and Child Development Department and Chairperson, Odisha State Women’s Commission, highlighted the necessity of coordinated efforts among all state government departments to prevent gender-based violence. She underscored that the workshop’s primary objective extended beyond merely providing empathy, aiming to create a safe environment for victims by genuinely considering their feelings.
Ms. Saini S., Inspector General of Police, Crimes Against Women and Children, expressed concern over the rising incidents of violence against women by family members, advocating strongly for a societal mindset change. UNFPA India Representative and Country Director for Bhutan, Ms. Andrea M. Wojnar, conveyed her gratitude to Deputy Chief Minister Parida for her efforts in empowering women in Odisha and emphasized the collective responsibility in eliminating gender-based violence.
The workshop also featured Padma Shri awardee and founder of Prajwala Social Institute, Hyderabad, Ms. Sunita Krishnan, as a resource person. She delivered special presentations and led detailed discussions, providing valuable insights to the participants.
The event witnessed the presence of prominent figures from various fields, institutional staff, policymakers, lawyers, counselling service providers, health service providers, District Safety Officers, Mental Health Specialists, staff from Sakhi-One Stop Centre and Shakti Sadan, representatives of civil society and voluntary organizations, and officers from the Women and Child Development Department and the Odisha State Women Commission, among others. The diverse participation reflected a unified commitment to addressing and eradicating gender-based violence in Odisha.
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