Pune: In an effort to support women and girls affected by atrocities, sexual abuse, and acid attacks, the Manodhairya scheme has distributed financial aid amounting to ₹3.83 crore from 2018 to September 2024.
This initiative, administered by the Maharashtra State Legal Services Authority and the Pune District Legal Services Authority, aims to provide critical support to victims through monetary compensation.
The scheme, which has been active since 2018, has received a total of 1,315 applications to date, out of which 864 women have been provided financial assistance.
According to Sonal Patil, Secretary of the Pune District Legal Services Authority, the Manodhairya scheme has proven to be a lifeline for victims of heinous crimes, offering financial stability during their recovery process.
One significant case from 2019 involved a 17-year-old girl who survived an acid attack and was granted ₹10 lakh through the scheme. She has since moved on to live a fulfilling life.
In another tragic incident in 2022, a 2.5-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and succumbed to her injuries. Her grieving family was provided with ₹10 lakh in financial assistance under the Manodhairya scheme.
Eligibility and Benefits
To be eligible for the scheme, the victim must be a resident of Maharashtra.
They are required to submit key documents such as a police complaint or FIR, identity proof, medical reports (if necessary), a court statement, and a death certificate in cases where the victim has died as a result of the incident. All documents must be submitted to the District Legal Services Authority located at the district court.
Under the Manodhairya scheme, compensation ranges from a minimum of ₹30,000 to a maximum of ₹10 lakh, depending on the nature and severity of the case.
The scheme is designed to offer immediate financial support and emotional resilience to victims, ensuring they do not have to endure further exploitation. The financial assistance serves as a vital step in helping women rebuild their lives.
Financial Assistance Distribution (2018-2024)
Since its inception, the Manodhairya scheme has progressively distributed compensation to victims as follows:
2018-19: ₹15,90,000
2019-20: ₹33,25,000
2020-21: ₹23,80,000
2021-22: ₹63,25,000
2022-23: ₹66,50,000
2023-24: ₹1,78,19,500
September 2024: ₹3,00,000
The total financial aid distributed so far stands at ₹3,83,89,500.
Sonal Patil, Secretary, Pune District Legal Services Authority, emphasized the need for quick and robust support systems for women and children who have experienced atrocities. "This financial aid not only helps victims rebuild their lives but also restores hope and courage in their futures," she said.