കോളയാട്
ഗ്രാമ പഞ്ചായത്ത്

Jagratha Samithi is the most important statutory mechanism functioning at the local level in the Gram Panchayats of Kerala to ensure the safety of women and children and prevent atrocities against them.

As per the Panchayat Raj Act, Jagratha Samithi have been formed in all local bodies as per the directions of the Women's Commission.

The main information about this committee is given below:

1. Structure of Jagratha Samithi (Panchayat Level)

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

Chairperson: Gram Panchayat President

Vice-Chairperson: Gram Panchayat Vice-President

Convenor: Women and Child Development Officer.

Co-Convenor: Gram Panchayat Secretary

Members:

Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Welfare

Circle Inspector (CI) or Sub-Inspector (SI) concerned

A woman advocate (to be nominated by the Legal Services Authority)

A woman representative from the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes

Medical Officer

Chairperson of Kudumbashree CDS

One person to be selected from among the Ward Level Vigilance Committee Conveners

Note: Apart from the Panchayat level, ‘Ward Level Vigilance Committees’ are also functioning at the ward levels under the leadership of ward members.

2. Main Duties and Powers

Resolving Complaints: Receive complaints of dowry harassment, domestic violence, denial of freedom of movement, humiliation of femininity, exploitation at workplaces and help in finding a solution through conciliation or legal means.

Provide legal aid: Ensure free legal aid and counseling to women and children who are victims of violence.

Refer cases: Transfer serious cases that cannot be resolved within the scope of the committee to the police, court or State Women's Commission.

Awareness: Organize awareness classes on the rights and laws of women and children in each ward.

Prevent violence: Build local resistance against child marriage, female foeticide, and drug abuse/trafficking against children.

3. Importance of Jagratha Samiti

This is a 'quasi-judicial' mechanism where ordinary women who are hesitant to approach the courts or the police can express their complaints without fear. Its services are provided completely free of cost.

Usually, the Jagratha Samiti meets once a month and takes action on the complaints received.