Sikkim Women’s Commission expands outreach, reviews services in Mangan district

The Sikkim State Commission for Women (SSCW) has intensified its outreach efforts in Mangan District with a high-level visit aimed at strengthening support mechanisms for women and reviewing the functioning of the One Stop Centre (OSC). The team, led by Chairperson Smt. Tan Doma Bhutia, was joined by members Smt. Palmu Sherpa, Smt. Ran Maya Tamang, Smt. Rupa Mangar, Ms. Nawamit Lepcha, and Smt. Devika Bista, along with Member Secretary Smt. Yousa Lachenpa.

The delegation met with District Collector Shri Anant Jain, IAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shri Sandeep Kumar, IAS, Additional SP Shri Mani Kumar Tamang, and Centre Administrator Smt. Sonam Phuti Bhutia. Discussions centered on domestic violence cases, the functioning of the OSC, and the implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.

Chairperson Bhutia highlighted innovative initiatives of the National Commission for Women (NCW), including the concept of Pre-Marital Communication Centers. These centers provide counseling and dialogue platforms for young couples before marriage, aiming to reduce future conflicts and promote healthy relationships. The team also raised concerns about timely marriage registration and explored ways to spread greater awareness about OSC services and women’s helpline numbers in remote areas of the district.

As part of the outreach, the Commission handed over a POSH awareness banner to the District Collector’s office. The team also visited the district hospital, where they interacted with female employees and the Chief Medical Officer. Discussions there focused on the mandatory reporting of cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and domestic violence, stressing the need for vigilance among healthcare professionals.

Chairperson Bhutia encouraged women to proactively seek support from the Commission, emphasizing that no one should hesitate to report incidents of abuse or harassment. She also called upon officials and OSC staff to continue strengthening coordination and ensure that women in vulnerable situations receive timely assistance.

The team later met with OSC staff to review ongoing services, identify challenges, and suggest measures to improve their effectiveness. The visit reaffirmed SSCW’s commitment to extending its presence in far-flung areas of Sikkim, ensuring that women’s rights and welfare remain a top priority.