Respecting Women’s Dignity and Choices Is True Strength: Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar
Bhubaneswar, 13.11.2026: The Odisha State Commission for Women (OSCW), in collaboration of the National Commission for Women (NCW), New Delhi, organised an ‘Awareness Workshop on Stalking’ at the New Auditorium, Rama Devi Women’s University. Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, Hon’ble Chairperson, National Commission for Women, New Delhi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the workshop, Smt. Rahatkar highlighted that stalking is a serious concern that threatens not only women’s safety but also their dignity, mental well-being, and freedom to live independently. Drawing a clear distinction between reel life and real life, she emphasized that pursuing a woman against her wishes or attempting to assert control over her is entirely unacceptable. Respecting a woman’s choices, consent, and dignity, she noted, is the true expression of strength.
The workshop also featured an in-depth discussion on the various forms and manifestations of stalking, relevant legal provisions, preventive measures, deterrence mechanisms, and support systems available to survivors. Smt. Rahatkar stressed that such incidents should never be endured in silence and urged women to report them promptly to the appropriate authorities. She further underscored that ensuring women’s safety is a collective responsibility that requires the active involvement of families, educational institutions, the administration, and society at large.
She also encouraged women and young girls to be aware of their rights and the legal safeguards available to protect them. Emphasizing the importance of accessing institutional support, she pointed out that women facing harassment or feeling unsafe can seek police assistance, including through the provision of Zero FIR, and can approach women police officers to report their grievances. She further drew attention to the legal provisions addressing various forms of cybercrime, including fake social media profiles, misuse of photographs, and mobile phone hacking.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Sri Ananta Narayan Singh Laguri, OAS (SAG), Additional Secretary to Government, Women & Child Development Department and Convenor Secretary, Odisha State Commission for Women, Among the distinguished guests present were Sri Ramawatar Singh, Deputy Director, National Commission for Women, New Delhi, and Prof. Jyotsna K.B. Rout, Vice-Chancellor, Rama Devi Women’s University, Bhubaneswar.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Smt. Urmila Mohapatra, Member, Odisha State Commission for Women, who expressed her sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, participants, and everyone associated with the successful organisation of the workshop. Among the other distinguished dignitaries present on the occasion were Smt. Prativa Satpathy, Dr. Kalpana Mallick, and Smt. Mukta Sahoo.
