
The abrupt discontinuation of women’s Special Cells in Jammu and Kashmir due to the cessation of funding from the National Commission for Women (NCW) is a deeply troubling development. These support units have played a crucial role in assisting victims of domestic violence, abuse, and other gender-based crimes. Their closure has left thousands of vulnerable women without essential protection and support, exposing them to greater risks. The Modi government must urgently step in to ensure that these cells continue functioning, which will reaffirm the Centre’s commitment to women’s safety and empowerment. Jammu and Kashmir has seen prolonged instability, and women have often borne the brunt of conflict and social challenges. The Special Cells, operated in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), have been lifelines for women facing violence and discrimination. These units provided legal aid, psychological support, and rehabilitation services, ensuring that survivors could rebuild their lives with dignity. Their sudden closure will undo years of progress and leave many women with no recourse to justice. The decision to discontinue funding raises serious questions about the priorities of the NCW and the central government. Women’s safety is not a negotiable issue—it is a fundamental right. If funding constraints were an issue, alternative mechanisms should have been explored rather than abruptly shutting down these vital units. Moreover, if the closure was due to administrative or policy realignments, then a clear transition plan should have been in place to prevent disruption in services. The lack of such planning reflects poorly on the government’s commitment to women’s welfare. The Modi government has consistently emphasized its focus on women-led development. Flagship schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ujjwala Yojana, and Nari Shakti initiatives have aimed to empower women across India. However, allowing the shutdown of these Special Cells in Jammu and Kashmir contradicts this vision. If the government is serious about ensuring women’s security and justice, it must take immediate steps to restore these cells, either by directing the NCW to reinstate funding or by allocating resources from other central schemes dedicated to women’s welfare. Furthermore, this issue is not just about funding—it is about the larger commitment to women’s rights in J&K that remains sensitive and complex. By intervening to keep these Special Cells operational, the Modi government would send a strong message that it prioritizes the safety and dignity of women, regardless of regional or political considerations. The government must act now. Women in Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford to lose these essential support systems. Their safety, dignity, and access to justice must remain a national priority.
The abrupt discontinuation of women’s Special Cells in Jammu and Kashmir due to the cessation of funding from the National Commission for Women (NCW) is a deeply troubling development. These support units have played a crucial role in assisting victims of domestic violence, abuse, and other gender-based crimes. Their closure has left thousands of vulnerable women without essential protection and support, exposing them to greater risks. The Modi government must urgently step in to ensure that these cells continue functioning, which will reaffirm the Centre’s commitment to women’s safety and empowerment. Jammu and Kashmir has seen prolonged instability, and women have often borne the brunt of conflict and social challenges. The Special Cells, operated in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), have been lifelines for women facing violence and discrimination. These units provided legal aid, psychological support, and rehabilitation services, ensuring that survivors could rebuild their lives with dignity. Their sudden closure will undo years of progress and leave many women with no recourse to justice. The decision to discontinue funding raises serious questions about the priorities of the NCW and the central government. Women’s safety is not a negotiable issue—it is a fundamental right. If funding constraints were an issue, alternative mechanisms should have been explored rather than abruptly shutting down these vital units. Moreover, if the closure was due to administrative or policy realignments, then a clear transition plan should have been in place to prevent disruption in services. The lack of such planning reflects poorly on the government’s commitment to women’s welfare. The Modi government has consistently emphasized its focus on women-led development. Flagship schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ujjwala Yojana, and Nari Shakti initiatives have aimed to empower women across India. However, allowing the shutdown of these Special Cells in Jammu and Kashmir contradicts this vision. If the government is serious about ensuring women’s security and justice, it must take immediate steps to restore these cells, either by directing the NCW to reinstate funding or by allocating resources from other central schemes dedicated to women’s welfare. Furthermore, this issue is not just about funding—it is about the larger commitment to women’s rights in J&K that remains sensitive and complex. By intervening to keep these Special Cells operational, the Modi government would send a strong message that it prioritizes the safety and dignity of women, regardless of regional or political considerations. The government must act now. Women in Jammu and Kashmir cannot afford to lose these essential support systems. Their safety, dignity, and access to justice must remain a national priority.
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