The posts of chairperson and members of the Tamil Nadu State Commission for Women have remained vacant for nearly a year. The State has only now called for applications to fill the posts. The posts have remained unfilled since former chairperson Visalakshi Nedunchezhian died last year. “Once all applications are processed, the posts will be filled within a short period,” said a senior official from the Department of Social Welfare and Nutritious Meal Programme.
The commission is supposed to have seven members.
Of these, two are MLAs, two are government nominees and the other three are appointed after an application process.
The chairperson is also selected after a similar process.
The primary function of the commission is to examine and investigate all matters relating to the safety of women, take up cases of violation of provisions and laws relating to women with the authorities concerned, and undertake research to suggest ways of ensuring equal representation for women.
‘Study required’
D. Nagasaila, advocate and member of People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), said a study or an enquiry by the commission on issues, including stalking, cyber crimes and honour killings, could have provided a better perspective on the plight of women. “The commission carries a lot of importance. Its involvement in critical matters plaguing women across the State could have helped relieve many from distress,” she said. “We hope that someone with considerable knowledge and experience in the field of gender is appointed,” she added.
