In collaboration with LBSNAA, NCW has launched a training programme for domestic violence protection officers

The National Commission for Women (NCW) today kick-started a project series, ‘Training Programme of Protection Officers in addressing Domestic Violence’ in collaboration with Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) to address the specific needs of Protection Officers in responding to survivors of domestic violence. The inaugural function was virtually attended by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt Smriti Zubin Irani, Chairperson NCW, Ms. Rekha Sharma, and Shri Lok Ranjan, Director LBSNAA.

The training will concentrate on the roles of various stakeholders/service providers under the Act, such as police, legal aid services, the health system, service providers, shelter services, and one-stop centers, among others.

In her inauguration address, Smriti Irani praised the National Commission for Women's effort. Protection Officers, she added, bridge the gap between administration and justice for women who have been wronged, and it should be their top priority to ensure that victims have access to all legal rights accessible to them.

The Minister praised the leadership of the NCW for working around the clock, especially during the pandemic, to assist women in need. She praised the Commission's various initiatives, such as its pregnancy helpline and the current drive to train Protection Officers.

Chairperson NCW, Smt. Rekha Sharma highlighted the importance of Protection Officers, who function as a liaison between the aggrieved lady and the court, in her speech. She stated that the Protection Officer assists the aggrieved lady in filing complaints and applications before the Magistrate to receive the appropriate remedies, as well as medical aid, legal aid, counseling, safe refuge, and other essential assistance.

She further stated that during the training sessions, participants will obtain a better grasp of the legal system, the role of Protection Officers, and the interconnection with other stakeholders to properly implement the Act. The program will also cover the impact of domestic abuse on survivors and their children, as well as changing stereotypical mindsets.

The five-day training event, which will take place from June 28 to July 2, is the first in a series of seminars for Protection Officers from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal. Because of the present pandemic crisis, the training was arranged online.