QUE: Explain the structure and functions of the National Commission for Women.

The structure of the National Commission for Women is described under Section 3 of the National Commission for Women Act, 1990. It consists of a total of 6 members, who are appointed by the Central Government.

 The main details are as follows:

Chairperson: The Chairperson of the Commission is a woman, who should be a person of repute and experience in the field of women. She is appointed by the Central Government and the term is 3 years or up to the age of 65 years (whichever comes first). The Chairperson heads the Commission and manages its affairs.

Members: The Commission consists of 5 members, of whom at least 2 are women. The members are also appointed by the Central Government and are experienced in the field of women, from legal, social or administrative backgrounds. Their term is also 3 years or up to the age of 65 years. The Commission also has a Member-Secretary, who is an officer of the rank of Secretary to the Government of India and manages the administrative and financial affairs of the Commission.

Other details: The Commission is headquartered in New Delhi and has the power to investigate and advise. The representation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes is kept in mind in the selection of members.

• Functions of the Commission

The functions of the National Commission for Women are described under Section 10 of the National Commission for Women Act, 1990. It focuses on protecting, investigating and advising on the rights of women. Its main functions are as follows:

Protection and promotion of women’s rights: To review laws and policies related to women and recommend amendments to them (such as the Domestic Violence Act and the Dowry Prohibition Act). To investigate violations of women’s rights and recommend necessary action to the government.

• Redressal and investigation of complaints: To investigate complaints of women, such as domestic violence, gender atrocities, harassment at work place, etc. The Commission has powers similar to those of a civil court, such as issuing summons, examining witnesses and calling for documents. After investigation, to recommend appropriate action to the government or officials.Awareness and Research To conduct awareness campaigns on women’s rights and problems. To conduct research and studies for the socio-economic empowerment of women. To advise the government on policies and programs for women’s welfare.

• Awareness and Research

• To conduct awareness campaigns on women’s rights and problems.

• To conduct research and study for the economic and social empowerment of women.

• To advise the government on policies and programmes for women’s welfare.

• Other important functions

• To examine and make recommendations on the implementation of laws relating to women’s rights. To cooperate with international human rights organisations.

• To present an annual report to Parliament describing the status of women’s rights.

• Powers of the Commission

• The Commission has powers similar to those of a civil court (Article 10(3)), such as to investigate, summon and obtain evidence.

• Its recommendations are not binding, but the government takes them into account and takes action if necessary.

• The Commission can conduct investigations on its own and, if necessary, go to court.

            Thus, the National Commission for Women plays an important role in strengthening women’s rights, but its effectiveness depends on implementation and government cooperation.