Mumbai, May 9 (IANS) National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar visited the KEM Hospital in Mumbai and reviewed operations of the government-run One Stop Centre meant for women affected by violence, an official said on Saturday.​

During the visit, Rahatkar interacted with the staff and offered suggestions to enhance the Centre’s services.​

In a message on social media, the NCW Chairperson said, “Visited the One Stop Centre operating in the KEM Hospital premises at Parel in Mumbai. It was satisfying to see the medical room, counselling room, temporary shelter facility, and the overall pleasant environment at the centre.”​

“While reviewing the centre’s operations, appropriate suggestions were also given to the concerned officials regarding the resolution of some necessary shortcomings,” said Rahatkar after visiting the medical examination room and other facilities.​

One Stop Centres (OSCs) are intended to support women affected by violence, in private and public spaces, within the family, community and at the workplace.​

Women facing physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and economic abuse, irrespective of age, class, caste, education status, marital status, race, and culture, are facilitated with support and redressal at these government-funded centres.​

Rahatkar’s visit to the KEM Hospital’s One Stop Centre comes close to her decision to recommend to the Central government a complete prohibition on parole for individuals convicted in cases of rape, aggravated sexual assault, and other serious offences against women and children.​

The proposed recommendations by the Commission may include amendments to prison and parole rules to classify rape, aggravated sexual assault, repeat sexual offences, and serious offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, as categories ineligible for parole or temporary release from jail, said an official statement on Friday.​

The Commission may also recommend additional safeguards, including mandatory risk assessment, strengthened police verification, electronic monitoring, and consultation with survivors or their families prior to granting any temporary release.​

Expressing concern over the existing parole framework in the wake of the recent Nasrapur sexual assault case in Pune district, in which a 65-year-old man raped and murdered a four-year-old girl, the NCW Chairperson observed that the Nasrapur incident has raised serious concerns regarding public safety and the confidence of women and girls in society.​

She said that in such cases, the protection, dignity, and security of women and children must remain paramount.​

–IANS

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