The National Commission for Women (NCW) is established to preserve and encourage the rights and interests of women. Established in 1992, under the National Commission for Women Act of 1990, it was created with the purpose of dealing with issues regarding gender inequality, discrimination, violence against women, and other matters, as well as ensuring their empowerment and welfare in different sectors of society.
Objective And Role
The National Commission for Women (NCW) serves as an important body to support women's rights as well as address gender discrimination and violence against women issues in India.
It acts, monitors and reports on adherence to the government legislation relating to the rights of women. Conduct a complaint review and investigation process for infringements of women’s rights. It also runs various research programs on women’s issues and awareness campaigns, thus empowering women with the help of initiatives and projects is one of our major priorities.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) aims to advance and protect the rights and welfare of women in India, empowering them and eradicating discrimination and violence. The NCW strives for gender equality and fosters a supportive environment for the growth and welfare of women in different sectors of society.
Timeline
The National Commission for Women (NCW) related significant events timeline is as follows: -
During 1990, consultations with NGOs, social workers and experts, regarding the structure, functions, powers etc. of the Commission proposed to be set up were held by the Central Government.
May 1990: The Bill for setting up of the National Commission for Women was introduced in the Lok Sabha.
30th August 1990: The Bill was passed and received the assent of the President
31st January 1992: The First Commission was constituted with Mrs. Jayanti Patnaik as the Chairperson under the National Commission for Women Act. It commenced its operations to safeguard and advocate for women's rights in India.
1997: The NCW introduced a 24-hour helpline to assist women in distress.
COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE
It consists of a Chairperson and members chosen by the President of India.
The setup generally entails:
Chairperson: A chairperson is nominated by the Central Government to oversee the working of the body
Five members: Five members are nominated by the Central Government. The team typically encompasses professionals with backgrounds in law, social work, women's rights, and similar domains.
Member Secretary: He is also nominated by the Central Government.
FUNCTIONS
The National Commission for Women (NCW) in various countries, including India, typically performs multiple functions:
Investigation and Examination of Complaints: The NCW has the authority of investigating and examining all matters relating to the safeguards provided for women under the Constitution and other laws including taking suo-motu cognizance of matters and receiving complaints related to the violation of women's rights.
Legal Aid and Assistance: The commission can also indulge in the provision of legal aid and assistance to women, particularly to those unable to engage legal counsel thus ensuring that women have access to justice and legal remedies.
Review of Existing Legislation: It reviews the existing provisions of the Constitution and other laws affecting women, thereby recommending amendments to laws and introducing new legislation for safeguarding and promoting the rights of women.
Awareness Programs: NCW works towards the creation of awareness regarding the rights and legal safeguards available to women. It includes the conduction of campaigns, seminars, workshops, and other awareness programs for educating women about their rights and sensitizing society regarding issues related to women.
Intervening in Court Cases: The commission has the authority to intervene in legal proceedings involving issues affecting women to ensure that women's perspectives and concerns are adequately represented in legal matters.
Advisory Role: NCW acts in an advisory capacity to the government on policies and programs affecting women.
Overall, the NCW plays a very important role in promoting gender equality and ensuring women's well-being in society.
Other important facts
Ms Rekha Sharma is the current Chairperson of the National Commission for Women. She took over Lalitha Kumaramangalam as the new Chairperson in September 2018.
It was constituted on 31st January 1992 with Jayanti Patnaik as the chairperson.
Alok Rawat IAS is the first male member of the National Commission for Women (NCW). His appointment filled the 4th seat on the five-member body.
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research:National Commission for Women, NCW, women's rights, gender equality, India, empowerment, discrimination, violence against women, legislation, investigation, awareness programs, legal aid, advisory role, Rekha Sharma, Alok Rawat
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