by Aswini Kumar Darjee
Bhubaneswar- Odisha is grappling with a disturbing wave of crimes against women, yet the very institution meant to ensure justice—the State Women’s Commission—remains inactive and headless. The absence of leadership in the Commission has come under severe criticism, especially after back-to-back incidents like the tragic self-immolation of a female student in Fakir Mohan College, Balasore, and the horrific Balanga burning case.
In a state where slogans like “Women Unsafe in Odisha” are gaining traction, the silence and stagnation of the Women’s Commission raise serious questions. Despite thousands of pending cases, the Commission has been non-functional for the past nine months, with the chairperson’s post lying vacant since November 2024. The previous chairperson, Minati Behera, was removed from her position, and the state government had promised swift appointments. Yet, no action has followed.
The failure to appoint a new chairperson is not just a bureaucratic lapse—it has left thousands of women without access to justice. According to official data, the Commission’s offices are overwhelmed with unresolved cases: Khordha tops the list with 450, followed by Cuttack (309), Kendrapara (216), and Puri (210). These files remain buried in dusty cabinets, symbolizing the neglected voices of women seeking help.
The situation has triggered political uproar. Both the Congress and BJD have slammed the BJP-led government for inaction. Opposition leaders have taken to the streets and are gearing up for intensified protests if appointments are not made immediately. Even the National Commission for Women has intervened in the Fakir Mohan incident—yet Odisha’s own commission remains silent.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida recently acknowledged in the Assembly that the Commission is virtually paralyzed. Her statement further fueled debate over the importance of a functioning Women’s Commission in safeguarding the rights of women in the state.
The Commission’s role is critical—not just for handling complaints of domestic violence, dowry abuse, and workplace harassment, but also for advocating policies, raising awareness, and advising the government on women’s safety. Without leadership, this vital body has lost its ability to respond, act, or reassure victims.
The delay in appointments, which many allege is a political decision following the regime change, reflects poorly on the government’s commitment to gender justice. The assurance made in October last year to fill the vacancies “immediately” has proven hollow, with no visible steps taken even as violence against women continues to surge.
Legal experts have also raised concerns. Advocate Anuradha Agrawal from Bargarh called the situation alarming, saying the Commission must not be treated as a symbolic body. She stressed that such institutions are vital in investigating harassment, discrimination, and violence, while also advising the government on policy and reforms. According to her, a functioning Commission is the first refuge for victims and a critical part of upholding gender justice.
She added that when such bodies fall silent, it sends a dangerous message to both victims and perpetrators—that justice can wait, and accountability can be avoided. Agrawal urged the state government to immediately restore the Commission’s operations by appointing a chairperson and empowering it with the autonomy and resources it needs.
As public outrage grows and political pressure mounts, the state government must recognize that women’s safety is not a matter of optional governance—it is a constitutional and moral responsibility. Reactivating the Women’s Commission with immediate appointments and functional autonomy is not just necessary—it’s overdue.
