Patna: In a major step to provide immediate and comprehensive assistance to women affected by violence, the Bihar government is expanding its One-Stop Center (OSC) network across the state. The Department of Social Welfare and Women & Child Development Corporation has announced the construction of 26 new centers, which will soon become operational.
Currently, 39 One-Stop Centers are functional in Bihar, and with the addition of new centers, the total will rise to 65, ensuring wider accessibility for women in both urban and rural areas.
Existing One-Stop Centers: Services and Impact
At present, each district has one OSC, while Patna operates two centers. Each center is staffed with a team of 13 trained personnel, providing victims with:
- Shelter and safe accommodation
- Medical assistance and health support
- Food and clothing
- Psycho-social and legal counseling
- Other essential support services
The new centers will be strategically located approximately 40 km from district headquarters at sub-divisional headquarters, making it easier for women in remote and rural areas to access help.
Three Years of Successful Intervention
Over the past three years, Bihar’s One-Stop Centers have handled 23,585 cases, with more than 20,000 cases successfully resolved:
- FY 2023-24: 7,517 cases registered; 6,599 resolved
- FY 2024-25: 8,888 cases registered; 7,185 resolved
- FY 2025-26 (up to January): 7,180 cases registered; 6,322 resolved
These statistics highlight the effectiveness of OSCs in providing timely and comprehensive support to victims.
Helpline and Emergency Response Integration
Women seeking immediate assistance can contact the OSC helpline at 181. In addition, the centers are integrated with the Emergency Response System (112) for rapid intervention.
To promote long-term empowerment, OSCs also provide women with skill development programs, linking victims to opportunities for economic independence and self-reliance.
One-Stop Centers: Protection, Rehabilitation, and Monitoring
One-Stop Centers serve as consolidated support hubs, preventing victims from having to visit multiple offices for assistance. When cases cannot be resolved through counseling alone, OSCs coordinate with relevant stakeholders to ensure relief for the victims.
Post-resolution, continuous monitoring for at least six months ensures the women’s safety and prevents recurrence of violence.
District and State-Level Oversight
At the district level, District Operation Committees chaired by the District Magistrate oversee the functioning of OSCs, including participation from police superintendents and other officials. Weekly reviews are also conducted at the state level by the Women & Child Development Corporation, ensuring accountability and efficiency in service delivery.
