Patna: Bihar government is preparing to deploy trained female guards at all One Stop Centres across the state in an effort to strengthen security for women survivors of violence. The move is aimed at creating a safer environment and encouraging survivors to make use of overnight accommodation available at these facilities.
The initiative is being led by the Social Welfare Department, which oversees the functioning of the centres established to provide integrated support services for women facing violence.
Security Upgrade Across 61 Centres
Bihar currently has 61 One Stop Centres, also known as Sakhi Centres, operating across different districts. Male guards are presently assigned to night duty at these facilities.
According to the department, the deployment of female guards is expected to improve both security and the confidence of women seeking shelter and support at the centres.
Overnight Stay Remains a Challenge
Although each One Stop Centre has accommodation for up to five women, overnight stays have remained limited because of security concerns. In many cases, survivors are shifted to alternative shelters such as Shanti Kutir instead of staying at the centres.
Officials believe the presence of female guards will make it easier for survivors to remain at the facilities when immediate shelter is required.
Pressure on Alternative Shelters
The challenge has become more significant as several short-stay homes in different districts have either ceased operations or are functioning with limited capacity.
Patna currently has two Shanti Kutir shelters, where dozens of women are staying. A substantial number of the residents are survivors of domestic violence who require temporary protection and support.
Trained Female Personnel to Be Appointed
The Social Welfare Department has said that trained women will be appointed as guards under the new arrangement. The department expects the measure to provide a more secure and trustworthy environment for women accessing the centres.
No timeline for the deployment has been announced.
Role of One Stop Centres
One Stop Centres were established across India after the 2012 Nirbhaya case to provide multiple support services for women affected by violence under one roof. These include legal assistance, medical support, counselling, police facilitation and temporary shelter.
With 61 centres currently operational in Bihar, the proposed deployment of female guards is intended to strengthen their ability to provide safe and accessible services for survivors of violence.
