A state‑level orientation programme on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005 and the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 was held in Bhubaneswar under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida.
Organised by the Department of Women and Child Development, the event brought together senior officials including Commissioner‑cum‑Secretary Dr Mrinalini Darswal, Director Monisha Banerjee, and Additional Secretary Sumitra Pattnayak, alongside representatives from districts — sub‑collectors, protection officers, police officials, One Stop Centres, Shakti Sadan staff, DLSA members, and DHEW officers.
The orientation focused on legal provisions, stakeholder roles, and coordinated action against domestic violence and dowry‑related crimes. Addressing participants, Deputy CM Parida reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s safety, dignity, and empowerment, stressing that awareness of rights is the foundation of empowerment.
She declared the government’s vision of building a “Dowry‑Free Odisha” and “Violence‑Free Homes”, noting that achieving this goal requires not only strict laws but also effective implementation, grassroots awareness, and collective stakeholder cooperation.
Parida urged officials and frontline workers to ensure that women facing domestic violence or dowry harassment receive timely protection, legal aid, counselling, and support services.
