Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 25: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced the formation of a committee comprising women legislators from both the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council to examine issues related to women's safety, harassment and other emerging concerns, and recommend measures to strengthen protection mechanisms across the state.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over crimes against women, workplace harassment and allegations of forced religious conversions.

The issue was raised in the Legislative Council by BJP MLC Chitra Wagh and Shiv Sena MLCs Neelam Gorhe and Manisha Kayande. The members expressed concern over incidents of harassment and crimes against women, citing recent cases reported from Nashik and Pune. They urged the government to take stringent action against those responsible and ensure accountability of organisations where such incidents occur.

Responding to the discussion, Fadnavis said several legal provisions and workplace regulations already exist to safeguard women. However, he stressed that many of these rules were framed years ago and may not adequately address present-day challenges.

"The changing work environment requires a new set of rules to address emerging challenges and ensure the safety of women employees," the Chief Minister said.

He added that the proposed committee would conduct a detailed study of the issues, review existing safeguards and submit recommendations to help the government strengthen policies and protection measures for women across Maharashtra.

The committee is expected to include women representatives from across party lines and will focus on identifying gaps in existing systems while suggesting practical solutions to improve women's safety and security.