For the past few months, especially pertaining to the dowry suicide case in Pune, the Maharashtra women’s commission has been at the receiving end over its style of functioning. In order to improve the functioning of the commission
(From left) Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare, Dy chairperson of legislative council Neelam Gorhe and women’s commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar at the meeting yesterday
The initiative to strengthen the Maharashtra State Commission for Women (women’s commission) turned out to be a battleground between the women politicians from the ruling and opposition parties, as the former allegedly selected attendees for the brainstorming session.
For the past few months, especially pertaining to the dowry suicide case in Pune, the Maharashtra women’s commission has been at the receiving end over its style of functioning. In order to improve the functioning of the commission, deputy chairperson of the state legislative council, Neelam Gorhe on Tuesday chaired a meeting to discuss and zero in on the solution that could help improve functioning of the ‘Mahila Ayog’.
However, even before the meeting could begin, the blame game commenced. The Shiv Sena (UBT) camp made accusations that people were selectively invited. “Under which authority was the meeting called?” Sushma Andhare questioned while speaking to media persons. Even former mayor of Mumbai, UBT senior leader Kishori Pendnekar, echoed almost similar views.
Meanwhile, a former member of the commission expressed anger over the lack of representation of activists working in the Vidarbha region. BJP Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Chitra Wagh and Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) leader Sheetal Mhatre, speaking with the media after the meeting, claimed that the meeting’s motive is important and refuted the charges.
Developments at the meet
During the meeting, Neelam Gorhe stated that the commission has been working since 1993 to empower and protect women. She asserted that while the commission serves as an effective tool, “strategic planning in terms of future decisions is needed.” Aditi Tatkare, minister for Women and Child Development of Maharashtra, explained that as per new regulations of the Government of India, the government will be responsible for running One Stop Centres, which were earlier run by NGOs.
More such centres needed
Emphasising the need to increase such centres and the scope of the Manodhairya Scheme, Tatkare said, “To reduce violence against women, there is a need to focus on counselling for men as well.” The minister suggested that the participation of men, especially the youth, needs to be increased in the commission’s activities.
The meeting also saw commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar share information about activities undertaken by her office. The points discussed in the meeting to strengthen the state women’s commission will be forwarded to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the Home Department for further action.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
