Fix OSCs to support women affected by violence, Delhi High Court tells government

The Delhi High Court has directed the government to enhance the functionality of One Stop Centres (OSCs), which support women affected by violence. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants focusing on GS Paper 2, which covers governance and social justice. Last Updated: 2025-07-25

Key Facts About One Stop Centres (OSCs)

• OSCs offer integrated support for women affected by violence.
• Launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Funded through the Nirbhaya Fund and implemented by state governments.
• Support includes medical, legal, and psychological services.
• Target beneficiaries are all women and girls, including minors.
• OSCs are linked to the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
• Services include emergency response, legal aid, and temporary shelter.
• At least one OSC is encouraged per district.
• Funding is managed via the Public Financial Management System.
• Staffing shortages and non-compliance with SOPs were identified.
• Delhi High Court issued directions for awareness campaigns.
• Government to strengthen OSC infrastructure and recruit staff.
• Mandated circulation of SOPs among stakeholders.
• A Nodal Officer must be appointed for oversight.
• Issues were highlighted in a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General.
• OSCs aim to support women affected by violence effectively.

India's Social Justice Initiatives

The enhancement of One Stop Centres (OSCs) is a significant step towards achieving India's social justice goals. These centres are pivotal in providing comprehensive support to women, aligning with the broader aim of gender equality and women's empowerment. The initiative reflects India's commitment to improving its human development indicators, as evidenced by its ranking in global gender equality indices.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Nirbhaya Fund: Provides financial support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women.
• Juvenile Justice Act, 2015: Provides a framework for the care and protection of children, linked to OSC services for minors.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations.
• Prelims Angle: Questions on the structure and function of OSCs, funding mechanisms, and related laws.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes on women's safety, the effectiveness of government schemes, and social justice.
• Essay Paper: Topics on gender equality and women's empowerment.

FAQ Section

• What is a One Stop Centre (OSC)?
  OSCs are facilities that provide integrated support services such as medical, legal, and psychological assistance to women affected by violence.
• Why is the enhancement of OSCs important?
  Enhancing OSCs is crucial for ensuring comprehensive support for women, addressing staffing shortages, and improving compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• What are the key features of OSCs?
  Key features include emergency response, legal aid, temporary shelter, and services for all women and girls, including minors, with at least one centre per district.