Mayabunder, April 17: In a significant push to bolster support systems for women facing violence and distress, the One Stop Centre (OSC) in North & Middle Andaman district has filled all its vacant posts. The move is expected to streamline and enhance the delivery of integrated services under the Mission Sakthi scheme of the Government of India.
The OSC is designed to function as a single-window facility offering a comprehensive range of emergency and support services under one roof. These include medical aid, legal counseling, temporary shelter for up to five days, police intervention, and psychological support to help women navigate situations of abuse, whether domestic, workplace-related, or community-based.
Deputy Commissioner Nandini Maharaj, IAS, handed over the appointment letters to the newly selected candidates in the presence of Assistant Commissioner (HQ), Ashish Joon. The staffing update is set to enhance operational efficiency and ensure timely intervention in cases of distress.
The One Stop Centre aims to fill a longstanding gap in immediate and coordinated support for women in crisis. With cases of domestic violence and gender-based abuse often under-reported in isolated island regions, the fully staffed OSC in Mayabunder is expected to become a critical lifeline for women seeking redressal and recovery.
Women in distress can access the centre either by visiting directly, or through referrals by Anganwadi workers, relatives, friends, or public servants. Support can also be availed via the national Women Helpline (No. 181) or through the office contact number 03192-273009.
While serious cases involving threats to safety or life are prioritized, the centre also offers mediation and guidance for minor familial issues, reaffirming its role not just as a crisis response unit, but also as a peace-building platform for women.
The facility is open to all women in North & Middle Andaman experiencing violence or emotional trauma. With improved staffing, the OSC now promises quicker response times and a more robust case follow-up mechanism.
This administrative push aligns with the UT Administration’s commitment to women’s safety, empowerment, and access to justice, especially in regions where isolation and lack of immediate access to services can aggravate vulnerabilities.
