- Ground Report from the One Stop Center in Indore

New Delhi, 19 June (H.S.): Bitter experiences often redirect lives, leading some to positively channel their struggles into helping others facing similar adversity. The One-Stop Center in Indore, supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, serves as a beacon of hope for victimized women, showcasing numerous inspiring stories. Rekha (fictional name), a 36-year-old survivor, is one such example. Four years ago, after being attacked by her husband during the pandemic and left for dead, she managed to seek refuge at the One-Stop Center in Vijaynagar. During her seven-day stay, she received medical care, legal aid, and counseling. Following this, she underwent six months of training that enabled her to secure a job with an NGO. Now assisting other women suffering from domestic abuse, Rekha emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment, reminding them that they deserve to live with dignity and that enduring violence is not a solution.

Harshita (fictional name), a new mother, also sought help at the Center. After her husband abandoned her for giving birth to a daughter, she found herself grappling with the reality of single motherhood. With an MA in Economics, Harshita not only desires justice for her situation but aims to craft a better future for her child. She has regularly visited the One-Stop Center for legal support, holding onto hope that her husband will eventually engage in the legal process.

Kaushalya, 50, also approached the Center, seeking assistance following years of domestic abuse. Despite her husband’s continual violence and financial domination of her income from dishwashing, she has reached her limit and is now actively pursuing help for herself. With grown children and a strong desire to escape the abuse, she aspires for counseling for her husband to potentially restore peace in her life.

Dr. Vanshena Singh Parihar, the administrator of the One-Stop Center, notes that since the establishment of the Nirbhaya Fund, 15,683 cases have been reported, with around 80% resolved. The center offers integrated services including shelter, medical care, legal support, police assistance, and counseling—all aimed at rehabilitating women who have experienced domestic violence.

Dr. Sandhya Vyas, Joint Director of the Women and Child Development Department for the Indore division, highlights the increasing awareness among women regarding their rights, attributing this progress to the center's nine years of dedicated service. Their focus on training and helping women achieve self-sufficiency has positioned Indore's One-Stop Center as a model for similar initiatives across India. Additionally, the One-Stop Center is part of the 'Sambal Vertical' under the Mission Shakti program, designed to provide comprehensive support to women facing violence or crises. With 802 operational OSCs nationwide, these centers strive to deliver essential services effectively and compassionately.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar