Under Mission Shakti, an initiative of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, aimed at strengthening women’s safety, security, and empowerment through coordinated support systems, the One Stop Centre (OSC), Leh, under the Department of Social and Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh, organized a Multi-Stakeholder Convergence Conference at the DC Conference Hall, Leh, on February 7.

The conference brought together representatives from the Police Department, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), District Hub for Empowerment of Women, women’s associations, religious organisations, Self Help Groups, frontline workers, and male representatives from various community and social organisations. The objective was to strengthen inter-departmental and community-level coordination for women’s protection and welfare.

Officials informed that the One Stop Centre, Leh, established in 2018, provides integrated support to women facing violence and distress in both private and public spaces. Services offered by the centre include legal aid, medical assistance, police facilitation, psychological counselling, and temporary shelter.

Awareness sessions during the programme highlighted emerging concerns such as financial abuse, cyber bullying, domestic violence, and abandonment.

The Women Police Department sensitised participants on reporting mechanisms and preventive measures. Officials also highlighted cases where extra-marital relationships have led to emotional, financial, or physical abuse of spouses, calling for stronger community support and urging religious and social institutions to play a constructive role in safeguarding women’s rights.

Representatives from women’s associations shared grassroots-level challenges and ongoing community support initiatives. They raised concerns related to women’s land entitlement and stressed the need for greater participation of women in decision-making processes within families and communities.

During the discussions, male participants representing various community and social organisations appreciated the ongoing efforts to support women victims and highlighted broader social concerns, including the growing problem of drug abuse, noting that several cases involve young girls, some as young as 14 years.

The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) briefed participants on legal rights and remedies under key legislations such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and Domestic Violence Act, citing case-based examples that underscored the importance of timely reporting and community vigilance. The District Hub for Empowerment of Women also emphasized the role of frontline workers in identifying and supporting vulnerable women through counselling and welfare services.

The programme concluded with a pledge-taking ceremony against child marriage as part of the Bal Vivah Mukht Bharat Campaign, followed by an interactive discussion aimed at strengthening coordination among departments and community stakeholders.

Officials informed that support from the One Stop Centre can be accessed by visiting the centre directly or by calling the Women Helpline 181. Referrals can also be made through police, hospitals, courts, government departments, non-governmental organisations, as well as family and community members.