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Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has been appointed as the ninth chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), succeeding Rekha Sharma. This appointment, made under Section 3 of the National Commission for Women Act, 1990, marks a significant shift in leadership for the statutory body dedicated to advancing women's rights in India. Rahatkar's tenure will commence immediately and will last for a period of three years or until she reaches the age of 65, whichever occurs first. The announcement was formally published in the Gazette of India, signifying the official commencement of her role.
Rahatkar brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in various prominent political and social roles. Notably, she held the position of chairperson for the Maharashtra State Commission for Women from 2016 to 2021. During this time, she spearheaded several impactful initiatives aimed at empowering women and addressing critical societal issues. The "Sakshama" program was designed to provide support and resources to acid attack survivors, while "Prajwala" facilitated connections between self-help groups and central government schemes. Furthermore, the establishment of "Suhita," a 24/7 helpline for women, served as a vital resource for those in need of immediate assistance and support.
Rahatkar's commitment to legal reform is evident in her efforts to strengthen the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, establish anti-triple talaq cells, and create specialized anti-human trafficking units. Her work extended beyond traditional legal frameworks to include initiatives promoting digital literacy and the launch of "Saad," a publication dedicated to addressing issues impacting women. This comprehensive approach highlights her multifaceted understanding of the challenges faced by women and her determination to create lasting solutions.
Source: Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar takes over as 9th chairperson of National Commission for Women