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) for women affected by violence. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for 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 and Governance

The enhancement of One Stop Centres (OSCs) aligns with India's broader goals of promoting social justice and improving governance. By addressing violence against women, the initiative contributes to the country's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. Such measures are essential for India to improve its rankings in global gender equality indices and to fulfill its obligations under international conventions like CEDAW.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Nirbhaya Fund: Provides financial support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women.
• Juvenile Justice Act, 2015: Protects children in conflict with the law and those in need of care and protection.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations.
• Prelims Angle: Questions on the Nirbhaya Fund, OSCs, and related government initiatives.
• Mains Angle: Essay topics on women's safety, social justice, and governance reforms.
• Optional Subjects: Sociology, Public Administration.

FAQ Section

• What is a One Stop Centre (OSC)?
  A One Stop Centre (OSC) is a facility that provides integrated support services to women affected by violence, including medical, legal, and psychological assistance.
• Why is the enhancement of OSCs important?
  Enhancing OSCs is crucial to ensure comprehensive support for victims of violence, improve service delivery, and fulfill India's commitments to gender equality.
• What are the key features of OSCs?
  Key features include emergency response services, legal aid, temporary shelter, and support for all women and girls, including minors. Each district is encouraged to have at least one OSC.