One Stop Centres Provide Lifeline to Over 17,000 Women Across Punjab

Reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of women, the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has taken significant steps to strengthen support systems for women facing violence and crisis situations. According to Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur, a total of 17,651 women have received free and integrated assistance through One Stop Centres established across the state from the financial year 2022–23 to 2025–26. She stated that these centres provide immediate and coordinated support to women in distress under one roof. The services include medical aid, legal assistance, police support, counselling, temporary shelter, and food facilities. Sharing year-wise data, the minister informed that 3,592 women were assisted in 2022–23, 3,633 in 2023–24, 5,305 in 2024–25, and 5,121 in 2025–26. She noted that the increasing numbers reflect both the expanding reach of the initiative and the growing trust among women in the system. Dr Baljit Kaur emphasized that these figures represent more than statistics, describing them as stories of courage and hope. She said that women who once faced fear and injustice are now rebuilding their lives with dignity and confidence. The One Stop Centres, she added, have emerged as strong pillars of safety, trust, and empowerment for women. The minister further stated that One Stop Centres have been established in all districts of Punjab to ensure that no woman is deprived of assistance during times of need. She also urged greater awareness about the Women Helpline number 181 (toll-free), encouraging its wider promotion to ensure timely support in emergency situations. She highlighted that the helpline is proving to be a vital link for safety, support, and trust for women across the state.