With the message “Life is not an addiction; life itself is the real high,” a human chain will be formed at Peringome Town on the 26th, marking the beginning of the Mega Cleaning Drive, with people joining together as strong links of human solidarity.
Jagratha Samithi

In Kerala’s Gram Panchayats, the Jagratha Samithi is one of the most important legal mechanisms functioning at the local level to ensure the safety of women and children and to prevent violence against them.

As per the Panchayat Raj Act, Jagratha Samithis have been constituted in all Local Self-Government Institutions as per the directions of the Women’s Commission.

The main details regarding the Jagratha Samithi are given below:

1. Structure of the Jagratha Samithi (Panchayat Level)

The structure of the 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 Welfare Standing Committee
    • Concerned Circle Inspector (CI) or Sub-Inspector (SI)
    • A woman advocate nominated by the Legal Services Authority
    • A woman representative from the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe community
    • Medical Officer
    • Kudumbashree CDS Chairperson
    • One person selected from among the convenors of the Ward-level Jagratha Samithis

Note: In addition to the Panchayat-level committee, Ward-level Jagratha Samithis also function at the ward level under the leadership of the respective Ward Member.

2. Major Duties and Powers

  • Redressal of Complaints: Receive complaints relating to dowry harassment, domestic violence, denial of freedom of movement, insulting or humiliating women, exploitation at workplaces, etc., and help find solutions through mediation or legal procedures.
  • Providing Legal Assistance: Ensure free legal assistance and counselling for women and children who are victims of violence or abuse.
  • Referral of Cases: Serious cases that cannot be resolved within the scope of the committee may be referred to the police, courts, or the State Women’s Commission.
  • Awareness Programmes: Organise awareness classes at the ward level on the rights of women and children and on relevant laws.
  • Prevention of Violence and Exploitation: Take local-level preventive measures against child marriage, female foeticide, substance abuse among children, trafficking of children, and similar issues.

3. Importance of the Jagratha Samithi

The Jagratha Samithi provides a quasi-judicial mechanism where ordinary women who may hesitate to approach the police or courts can express their grievances without fear. Its services are provided completely free of cost.

Generally, the Jagratha Samithi meets once a month and takes necessary follow-up action on the complaints received.