Uttar Pradesh Expands Women's Safety Network with 25 New One Stop Centres
In a significant move to bolster women's safety and empowerment across Uttar Pradesh, the state government under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is preparing to inaugurate 25 new One Stop Centres in April. This expansion will elevate the total number of operational centres to 121, marking a substantial enhancement in support services for women affected by violence.
Enhanced Coverage Across Key Districts
The new centres will be strategically distributed to ensure broader accessibility. Notably, two centres each will be established in Lucknow, Jaunpur, Sonbhadra, and Gautam Budh Nagar, addressing high-need areas. Additionally, single centres will be launched in 17 other districts, including Ayodhya, Mirzapur, Maharajganj, Meerut, Prayagraj, Agra, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Aligarh, Azamgarh, Unnao, Jalaun, Bahraich, Firozabad, Lakhimpur Kheri, Chandauli, and Hardoi. This widespread deployment aims to cater to the state's large population, providing immediate assistance to women in distress.
Comprehensive Support Services
Each One Stop Centre is designed as a holistic hub offering a range of critical services under one roof. Women impacted by violence can access:
- Short-stay facilities for temporary shelter and safety.
- Medical assistance to address health needs promptly.
- Counselling services for emotional and psychological support.
- Legal aid to navigate judicial processes and secure justice.
- Police support to facilitate reporting and investigation of incidents.
To ensure rapid response in emergencies, every centre will be equipped with a dedicated vehicle, enhancing the efficiency of aid delivery.
Proven Effectiveness and Future Impact
Since the inception of the One Stop Centre scheme, these facilities have assisted approximately 2.39 lakh cases, demonstrating their vital role in providing relief and support. The expansion from 96 to 121 centres is expected to further strengthen this model, creating a safer and more supportive environment for women statewide. This initiative is widely regarded as a decisive step towards empowering women and ensuring their security, aligning with broader efforts to promote justice and well-being in Uttar Pradesh.
