One Stop Centres: Empowering Women, Restoring Dignity

These cases reflect the undeniable importance of One Stop Centres in today’s world, More than just administrative units, OSCs act as safe spaces where women are heard, respected, and supported without judgment. They cater to women from diverse backgrounds and circumstances, helping them find justice, dignity, and in many cases, reconciliation.

- RAYEES MASROOR

In a society where domestic violence and abuse against women often go unspoken and unresolved, One Stop Centres (OSCs) have emerged as a critical intervention mechanism to support and empower women in distress. These centres, initiated under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, aim to provide a comprehensive and integrated range of services including legal aid, psychological counselling, police assistance, medical support, and temporary shelter all under one roof. Their role is not just limited to responding to violence but extends to helping women rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. The OSC Kupwara, in particular, stands as a shining example of this mission in action. Several women who approached the centre had suffered prolonged neglect and abuse ranging from being abandoned by their spouses to being emotionally manipulated and misled. In many of these cases, the victims had no place to turn to, until they came in contact with the OSC. What sets OSCs apart is their commitment to listening patiently, responding empathetically, and following up consistently offering not just technical support but e