{ BJP workers led by Sunil Singla State Median Incharge welcomes Chairperson }
By Amrit Pal Sidhu #Babushahi Network
Bathinda, July 17:
Reaffirming the National Commission for Women's commitment to ensuring timely justice and strengthening women's safety, National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Thursday conducted a public hearing in Bathinda under the Commission's nationwide outreach programme, "National Commission for Women at Your Doorstep."
The public hearing brought together senior district administration and police officials to address complaints related to domestic violence, dowry harassment, sexual offences and other crimes against women.
During the proceedings, the NCW Chairperson directed the concerned authorities to ensure that every complaint is handled with sensitivity, accountability and within a fixed timeframe. In several cases, she issued on-the-spot directions for immediate action to expedite justice for the complainants.
Addressing the media after the hearing, Rahatkar delivered a strong message against discrimination and disrespect towards women.
"Derogatory language, character assassination and insensitive behaviour towards women are unacceptable under any circumstances.
Every institution must adopt a compassionate and responsible approach while dealing with women-related cases," she said.
She stressed that justice must not only be delivered but must also be accessible, humane and prompt, urging all government departments to work in close coordination to ensure effective grievance redressal.
The hearing was attended by Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Dhiman, Bathinda SSP Dr. Jyoti Yadav Bains, Mansa SSP Bhagirath Singh Meena, and other senior officers from the civil and police administration.
Earlier in the day, the NCW Chairperson visited Bathinda Central Jail, where she interacted with women inmates to assess their living conditions, welfare and rehabilitation measures.
She also addressed the "She Serves" seminar at Government Rajindra College, encouraging young women to pursue careers in the armed forces and highlighting the expanding opportunities available to women in the defence services.
Later, while addressing a programme at DAV College, Rahatkar expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse and substance addiction, particularly its devastating impact on women and families.
She called for greater public awareness, institutional support and community participation to combat the problem effectively.
Following the public hearing, the NCW Chairperson chaired a high-level review meeting with administrative and police officials of the Bathinda Range. The meeting focused on the speedy disposal of women-related cases, strengthening coordination between civil and police authorities, and ensuring regular monitoring of complaints to improve service delivery and accountability.
Rahatkar also proposed the district-level implementation of the Commission's "Tere Mere Sapne" initiative, urging officials to ensure that welfare and empowerment schemes reach every eligible woman, particularly those in vulnerable and marginalized communities.
Expressing concern over the increasing incidence of cybercrime targeting women as well as the impact of drug abuse on women's safety and well-being, she assured the Commission's full cooperation in supporting state authorities through awareness campaigns, policy interventions and institutional coordination.
Through her day-long engagements in Bathinda, the NCW Chairperson reiterated the Commission's commitment to building a governance system that is responsive, gender-sensitive and accountable, while ensuring that every woman receives dignity, protection and timely justice.