Cuttack: Issuing a strong warning to people involved in crimes against women, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday said tough action will be taken against those perpetrating such offences.
Speaking at the Republic Day celebrations at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, the Chief Minister said women constitute nearly half of the state’s population and the government accords top priority to ensuring their safety and dignity. “Safety, security and dignity come first for the government and we are fully committed to protecting women in our state,” said Majhi.
Stressing that state government follows a zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against women, the Chief Mini
ster made it clear that any form of violence and atrocities against women will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The conviction rate in cases of violence against women was low earlier but has increased after the current government came to power, reflecting stricter enforcement of law, he said.
Emphasising that jail is the only address for those involved in violence against women, the CM said violence against women will never be tolerated and the offenders will be given stringent punishment.
Sharing a detailed account of various welfare initiatives taken in the state, the Chief Minister said the government has launched several schemes aimed at empowering women, including the Subhadra scheme. He also said Odisha has taken a lead in implementing the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, which focuses on economic empowerment of women.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to strengthening women’s safety, CM Majhi said top priority is being accorded to ensure dignity and empowerment of women through both strict law enforcement and targeted welfare programmes.