Maharashtra Government Set up Manodhairya to help Rape Survivors

Maharashtra state government on 11 September 2013 announced its scheme Manodhairya to help rape survivors and child victims of sexual abuse. They will be given financial help of 2 to 3 lakh rupees. In 2009 the Code of Criminal Procedure had been amended which made it mandatory for the States of India to set up a victim compensation relief fund for victims of rape and sexual assault and acid attacks.

The scheme will be implemented by the committee to be formed under the District Collector. Victims of acid attacks will get help of 3 lakh rupees, in case of permanent handicap and 50000 rupees will be given for other treatment of other injuries.

In addition to financial help, either victims or their relatives will be provided with services such as counselling, housing, legal aid, education and professional training.

The Maharashtra government also decided to increase the number of counselling centres working within the premises of police stations.  Presently, Maharashtra has 90 such centres.