Protection of women against violence

We live in a world were women are often subjected to domestic violence. The lack of implementation of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act was always a concern raised. Under this Act, women victims need the assistance of a protection officer to lodge a complaint and to file a domestic violence report. The deployment of protection officers in the country is very less; they often work part-time and are not so capable to assist victims to lodge complaints. For example, in Rajasthan, which includes 27 million women,there are only 607  protection officers designated and 118 organizations registered as service providers.

The inadequacy of resources to provide a mandatory service  proves the failure of this act. It  was informed that the central Government is considering providing financial assistance to states to employ full-time protection officers. Concerns were also raised with regard to the lack of protection for people in same-sex relationships, which is considered illegal.

Although telephone services are available, the police are mostly the first point of contact for most of the women, according to reports received. All the victims of violence, who require special security, shelter, housing, health care and socioeconomic protection, from the state often face significant challenges. Many services provided lack sufficient resources. With regards to access to services numerous allegations were made on caste-based discrimination, committed by police officers, public representatives and community members.

The criminal justice system does not operate fully on the basis of the rule of law in accordance with international standards was the another concern highlighted .  The cases of criminalized women victims of violence, including victims of sexual harassment and communal violence were informed to the special rapporteur. Also  the concern that legal aid, a right which is  guaranteed in article 39A of the Constitution, was not equally granted to women in practice, and particularly to poor women was raised.