State to implement Domestic Violence Act

The state government is all set to implement the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, which was passed by the Centre last year. Apart from deputing protection officers — as mentioned in the Act — on district level, the government is planning a number of propaganda measures, including introducing a chapter in the syllabus for 9th and 10th standard.

Maharashtra would be the second state to implement the Act after Andhra Pradesh. Women and Child Welfare Minister Harshavardhan Patil, on Tuesday announced the appointment of protection officers on district level to see the smooth implementation of the Act. “The Home Department is working to spread awareness about the Act, setting up shelter homes for the victims, providing medical aid and counselling to patch up with spouse,” the minister announced.

After the Home Department ruled out sparing lady officials for handling domestic violence cases in the police stations, the government passed on the responsibility to the Tehsildar, Block Development Officers, Deputy Tehsildar and others. “Every tehsil will have nearly 5 such officials, who will take the responsibility of making case papers to filing chargesheets and counselling the victims, if needed,” Patil said.