Patiala, June 17
National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar attended a women’s public hearing in Patiala, reviewing more than 42 complaints, including domestic violence and rape cases. She criticised police delays in certain matters and directed immediate registration of FIRs where required. On Wednesday, attended a women’s public hearing programme in Patiala, where more than 42 complaints relating to domestic violence, rape, suicide and other issues were taken up for review.
Speaking to the media, Rahatkar said the hearing focused on complaints submitted by women from Patiala district who had approached the Commission seeking intervention. She said the cases were examined individually and appropriate directions were issued to the concerned authorities.
According to the NCW Chairperson, several cases revealed delays in police action. She said the Commission had directed police officials to register First Information Reports (FIRs) immediately in a number of matters where legal action was found to be pending.
Commenting on the Dimple murder case, Rahatkar said she would collect all relevant information related to the matter before taking it up further. Referring to remarks made by the Punjab Women’s Commission Chairperson, she stressed that no one has the right to question a woman’s character.
“We must treat women with dignity and support them in addressing their grievances. Insensitive comments about women, regardless of who makes them, are not appropriate,” she said.
Rahatkar added that any comment concerning women should be made with utmost care and sensitivity.
Expressing sympathy over the Dimple case, she said the death of a young woman was a significant loss. “My condolences are with the family. If any aspect of the case has been overlooked under the law, I will certainly convey the matter to the police authorities,” she said.
Responding to a question regarding reports of missing minor girls in Ludhiana, Rahatkar said the NCW had immediately written to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), urging it to examine the matter and take necessary action.
When asked about the resignation of former Haryana Women’s Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia, Rahatkar said a new chairperson had already been appointed and expressed hope that the new leadership would continue working for the welfare and empowerment of women.
