Mumbai, Jan 23 : A city-based NGO, Majlis (advocating for the rights of women and children), in partnership with the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department, Mumbai City, convened a stakeholder roundtable to discuss critical challenges in implementing the Manodhairya Scheme, special relief measures, and the roles of Special Educators, Translators, and Interpreters. Participants included representatives from the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Child Welfare Committee (CWC), District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), senior police officials, and women police officers from Mumbai.

The Manodhairya Scheme, introduced by the Maharashtra Government in 2013, aims to provide financial aid and rehabilitation for victims of penetrative sexual assault and acid attacks. The discussion highlighted several issues victims face, such as delays in submitting applications to the DLSA, challenges in opening bank accounts, interim compensation not being disbursed within the mandated seven days, and a lack of awareness about compensation outcomes.

The scheme also includes provisions for victim rehabilitation, such as counseling, free medical and legal aid, and vocational training. However, participants noted a lack of clarity on how to access these services.

The meeting also addressed Rule 8 under the POCSO Act, which allows CWCs to authorize immediate payments for contingencies like food, clothing, and transportation for victims. However, neither the DLSA nor the DCPU had allocated funds for such payments. A resolution was made to seek guidance from the WCD on processing these payments.

Additionally, the meeting explored the role of Special Educators, Translators, and Interpreters in assisting victims with disabilities or language barriers. Police highlighted difficulties in accessing trained professionals, as the DCPU, mandated under the POCSO Act to maintain a list of such experts, has not initiated the process due to uncertainties around payment procedures.

Adv. Audrey Dmello, Director of Majlis, noted, “All stakeholders shared their challenges openly, allowing us to identify solutions and promote inter-agency collaboration to enhance victim support.”

Helpline
Majlis offers legal counseling for women and children facing sexual and domestic violence. For assistance, call 07506732641 (Mon-Fri, 11 AM to 7 PM).