Kathmandu, Dec 10: Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Surendra Raj Acharya, has said government is committed to reduce all sorts of violence against women (VAW).   

Government is effortful to ensure rights to women, Minister Acharya said while addressing a programme the National Women Commission organized on the concluding day of 16-Day Activism against Gender-based Violence on Sunday. The Day also marks the sixth anniversary of '1145 Helpline Service' the Commission launched.     

Once the status of women is elevated, prosperous society is created, he said, adding that ministry has adopted the policy of zero tolerance against VAW. Minister Acharya expressed confidence that the helpline established by the Women Commission would be very helpful to end VAW and cater justice to the victims.     

According to the minister, efforts were underway to reinforce the role of province and local levels in the very policy level so that women's rights would be addressed well. He expressed gratitude to all sides concerned who engaged with the 16-Day Activism against GBV.     

On the occasion, Women Commission's Chairperson Kamala Parajuli drew the government's attention to establish provincial offices of Commission. "For lack of Commission offices in provinces, victim women's access to Commission service is delayed and restricted as well. It is also problematic to reach local level for massive awareness and advocacy," she shared.     

She further informed that the service seekers were expecting much from the Commission.     

Secretary at Commission, Kamal Bahadur Rajlabat, also expressed commitment that the campaign against VAW would continue round the year.     

It was informed at the programme that Commission receives complaints on domestic violence, VAW, and exploitation and provides immediate service to the needy ones under the 1145 helpline facility. Even the counseling is provided via the helpline.     

The Commission had witnessed the registration of 818 cases of domestic violence and 84 VAW in the fiscal year, 2079/80. Most of the complaints are recorded via helpline. (RSS)