Jagratha Samithi

Jagratha Samithi

The Jagratha Samithi is an important local-level mechanism functioning in Grama Panchayats in Kerala to ensure the safety and security of women and children and to prevent violence and other forms of abuse against them.

Jagratha Samithis have been constituted in local self-government institutions in accordance with the provisions of the Panchayat Raj Act and the directions of the Kerala State Women’s Commission.

The major details regarding the Jagratha Samithi are given below:

1. Structure of the Jagratha Samithi at the Panchayat Level

The structure of the Jagratha Samithi at the Grama Panchayat level is generally as follows:

  • Chairperson: Grama Panchayat President
  • Vice Chairperson: Grama Panchayat Vice President
  • Convener: Women and Child Development Officer
  • Co-Convener: Grama Panchayat Secretary
  • Members:
    • Chairperson of the Welfare Standing Committee
    • The concerned Circle Inspector (CI) or Sub-Inspector (SI) of Police
    • A woman advocate nominated by the Legal Services Authority
    • A woman representative from the Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribe community
    • Medical Officer
    • Chairperson of the Kudumbashree Community Development Society (CDS)
    • One person selected from among the conveners of the Ward-level Jagratha Samithis

Note: In addition to the Panchayat-level Jagratha Samithi, Ward-level Jagratha Samithis also function at the ward level under the leadership of the respective Ward Member.

2. Major Functions and Responsibilities

  • Redressal of Complaints:
    To receive complaints relating to dowry harassment, domestic violence, denial of freedom of movement, offences or acts insulting the dignity of women, exploitation at workplaces, and similar issues, and to facilitate resolution through mediation or appropriate legal action.
  • Legal Assistance:
    To facilitate free legal assistance and counselling for women and children who are victims of violence or abuse.
  • Referral of Cases:
    Serious cases that cannot be resolved within the scope of the committee may be referred to the Police, Courts, or the State Women’s Commission, as appropriate.
  • Awareness Programmes:
    To organise awareness classes and programmes at the ward level regarding the rights of women and children and the laws intended to protect them.
  • Prevention of Violence and Exploitation:
    To undertake local-level preventive measures against child marriage, female foeticide, substance abuse among children, trafficking, and other forms of violence and exploitation affecting women and children.

3. Importance of the Jagratha Samithi

The Jagratha Samithi provides an accessible local-level platform where women who may be hesitant to approach the Police or Courts can express their grievances and seek assistance. The mechanism facilitates access to counselling, legal assistance, and appropriate institutional intervention.

The Jagratha Samithi generally meets once a month to review complaints received and to take appropriate follow-up action.

Through its local-level intervention, the Jagratha Samithi contributes to the protection of women and children, prevention of violence, promotion of awareness, and strengthening of community support mechanisms.