Govt implemented OSC Scheme to provide support and assistance under one roof to women affected by violence: Smriti Irani in Rajya Sabha

Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani today said the government has implemented the One Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme across the country to provide integrated support and assistance under one roof with range of services to women affected by violence.

Replying to question in the Rajya Sabha, she said as of now, 733 OSCs have been approved, out of which 704 are operational in 35 States and Union Territories. She said that these OSCs have assisted more than four lakh 54  thousand women. Mrs Irani also said that her ministry also implements the Universalisation of Women Helpline (WHL) Scheme with an aim to provide 24-hour emergency and non-emergency response to women including the women affected by violence or in distress across the country through referral services and connecting them with OSCs. She said the women helpline is operational in 34 States and Union Territories and have handled more than 66 lakh calls. She also informed that the Central government provides 100 per cent financial assistance directly to Districts for setting up and Management of OSCs.

In reply to a question on whether the government has taken any position regarding inclusion of marital rape as an offence under IPC, the Minister said that the matter of marital rape is sub-judice. She added that the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs in its report had recommended that there is a need for a comprehensive review of the Criminal Justice System of the country.  Mrs Irani said accordingly the Centre has initiated the process for comprehensive amendments to criminal laws in consultation with all stakeholders.