Closure of Special Cells for Women Sparks Outcry in J-K

Senior PDP leader Waheed Ur Rehman Para criticized the decision to close special cells for women in Jammu and Kashmir, labeling it reckless and dangerous. Despite assisting nearly 9,800 survivors, the cells face closure due to government inaction. Health Minister Sakina Itoo and activists urge swift intervention to preserve these vital services.

Senior PDP leader and legislator Waheed Ur Rehman Para expressed deep concern over the discontinuation of special cells for women in Jammu and Kashmir, denouncing it as a reckless decision endangering vulnerable women's lives.

Para, who is the PDP's legislative leader in the J-K Assembly, has urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Health Minister Sakina Itoo, and the National Commission for Women (NCW) to restore and institutionalize these cells. The special cells, operational since November 2021, have aided nearly 9,800 survivors across all districts in Jammu and Kashmir.

Implemented by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences with local authorities, these cells provided crucial support within police stations. Concerns arise as the memorandum of understanding between the relevant authorities expires in 2025, with current government support seemingly inadequate. Health Minister Sakina Itoo has formally sought a one-year extension from NCW, emphasizing the critical support these cells offer to women in distress, alongside other centers providing essential services.

(With inputs from agencies.)