Odisha's Bold Stance: Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence

A Commitment to Change in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The government of Odisha has declared a strict zero-tolerance approach towards gender-based violence, as stated by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during a recent workshop focused on 'gender-based violence and trauma-informed care for survivors.' This event was organized by the Odisha State Commission for Women.

Parida highlighted that gender-based violence severely impacts the health, dignity, safety, and freedom of its victims. She emphasized that empowering women is essential for societal progress, urging everyone to take responsibility in preventing such violence and promoting awareness.

As the Minister for Women and Child Development, Parida reiterated the government's dedication to women's empowerment and outlined ongoing efforts in this area. She proposed enhancing skill development programs for survivors at 'Sakhi one-stop centres' to help them reintegrate into society, rebuild their self-esteem, and secure their livelihoods.

She also urged law enforcement officials to approach cases of gender-based violence with sensitivity.

Shubha Sharma, the principal secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, stressed the importance of inter-departmental collaboration to combat gender-based violence effectively. The workshop aimed not only to foster empathy but also to establish a safe environment for survivors.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Shyni S, who attended the workshop, pointed out the necessity for a societal mindset shift regarding gender-based violence. Andrea M Wojnar, the UNFPA India Representative and country director for Bhutan, underscored the collective duty to eradicate gender-based violence.