Dr Nagalakshmi Choudhary, chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Women (KSCW), has directed officials to establish Internal Complaint Committees (ICCs) in all organisations and offices where women work in Udupi district. This move aims to facilitate the filing of complaints in cases of sexual harassment. She stressed the need for the effective functioning of these committees to ensure justice for women.
Review Meeting Highlights
Speaking at a review meeting organised by the Commission in collaboration with the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, police department, and the women and child development department, she highlighted the importance of forming ICCs in both government and private institutions with more than 10 employees, as per government orders. These committees are required to meet every three months, and awareness about their functioning should be created among employees. The names of the committee chairperson and other members must be displayed prominently in the workplace.
Current Status of ICCs in Udupi
In Udupi district, 789 Internal Complaint Committees have been established so far, including 345 in government offices and 444 in private offices. However, information on only 346 committees has been entered into the portal, while data for the remaining 443 committees needs to be uploaded. Dr Choudhary emphasised that the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, must be implemented effectively to address women's issues.
Issues at Malpe Port
During a visit to Malpe port, the chairperson observed that women were deprived of government facilities due to a lack of awareness. She suggested organising special camps to inform them about available government schemes and to report back to the commission. She also instructed port department officials to ensure cleanliness in the Malpe port area, install CCTV cameras, and maintain clean toilets.
Other Concerns Raised
Complaints were received about inadequate response to women's complaints at the Brahmavar police station. Additionally, due to a shortage of gynecologists at Karkala taluk hospital, women have had to travel to other taluks or districts for deliveries for the past year. Dr Choudhary instructed that gynecologists should be appointed immediately to address this issue.
Case Review and Dharmasthala Report
During the program, 54 cases registered with the State Women's Commission were reviewed, and relevant officials were instructed to resolve the issues. Commission secretary Roopa R, deputy commissioner Swaroopa TK, SP Hariram Shankar, and others were present.
The KSCW chairperson also stated that the Commission had sought a progress report on the investigation into the suspicious deaths and cases of missing women in Dharmasthala, but the report is yet to be submitted. She said no report has been furnished to the Commission so far and added that the investigation is still ongoing.
