WCD Minister criticises Delhi, West Bengal for failing to implement Central schemes for women’s safety

Union Minister criticizes Delhi and West Bengal for failing to implement women's safety measures despite Central assistance.

Union Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi on Tuesday (December 3, 2024) criticised Opposition-ruled Delhi and West Bengal for failing to implement women’s safety measures like One Stop Centres and fast-track courts despite adequate Central assistance.

While Delhi is governed by the Aam Aadmi Party, West Bengal is ruled by the Trinamool Congress.

Addressing a press conference here, Ms. Devi claimed the Delhi government had not paid the staff of One Stop Centres (OSCs) established for distressed women.

Also read: Indian spending on women’s safety ‘grossly inadequate’, says Oxfam

“The Centre has consistently supported States through initiatives like Nirbhaya Fund, but it is disappointing to see delays in implementation at the State-level,” she said.

The One Stop Centres scheme was launched on April 1, 2015 under Nirbhaya Fund to assist women in distress. It provides integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence and in distress, both in private and public spaces in a convergent and coordinated manner under one roof. It is a centrally-sponsored scheme with 100% share from the Centre.

According to data shared by the Women and Child Development Ministry, as on date 802 OSCs are operational. In Delhi, a total of 11 OSCs are operational in each district. In the financial year 2024-25, ₹1.05 crore has been released on July 11 and ₹2.09 crore on November 26.