The new office building of the One Stop Centre at Khliehriat was inaugurated yesterday by Social Welfare Minister Kyrmen Shylla in the presence of East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner Ethelbert Kharmalki and Director of Social Welfare Department D D. Shira.
The programme was also attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, M S Sangma, and I Talang, Deputy Director, Social Welfare Department, Shillong.
The One Stop Centre in the district will provide support to women affected by violence both in private and public space, within the family, community and at the workplace and women facing physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and economic abuse irrespective of age class caste, education status, marital status, race and culture. The services available are Emergency Response and Rescue Services, medical assistance, assistance to women in lodging FIR, NCR, DIR, shelters and legal aid and counselling.
While addressing on the occasion, Shylla said that the One Stop Centre will cater to the need of the women and children affected by violence.
He also said that in the recent past there has been a rise in crime against women and children in the State. He urged the women and children affected by violence, to reach out to seek protection, support from the office of the One Stop Centre in the district.
Shylla also stated that the State government is taking the necessary measures required to ensure safety and protection for women and children in the State.
He also called upon the people in the gathering to share and create awareness on the facilities and services provided by the One Stop Center so that women in every corner of the district can come forward to share their grievances or problems they are facing.
The minister also appealed to all the staff of the One Stop Centre to sincerely dedicate themselves to their work and to give the best service especially to those women in need of help and support.
Speaking on the need to prevent crime against women, he urged the people of the district to work together in order to stop any form of crime and violence against women and children because they also hold a special place in the society and should be respected equally.
Ethelbert Kharmalki, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District in his speech lauded the efforts and hard work of the District Social Welfare Officer for the setting up of the One Stop Center in the District.
He further stated that with the hard work and the range of services that will be provided by the staff of the One Stop Centre, it will bring about a positive outcome especially to the women and children affected by violence and those who are seeking support and assistance.
Among others who also spoke during the programme include D D Shira, Director of Social Welfare Department, R Passah, District Social Welfare Officer who delivered the welcome address, D Lyngdoh, Para Legal Personnel and lawyer, One Stop Centre and T Phawa, IT Staff, One Stop Centre who offered the vote of thanks.
