PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Uttarakhand State Commission for Women (USCW) chairwoman Kusum Kandwal has taken note of allegations made by a female principal against a block education officer. The principal accused the officer of mental harassment and withholding her salary, considering which Kandwal has directed the Pauri chief education officer to form an inquiry committee at the district level and to immediately transfer the accused officer. This action was taken during a public hearing held in Pauri district on Tuesday as part of the National Commission for Women’s campaign “Mahila Aayog Aapke Dwar”.
To commemorate International Women’s Day, the USCW recently launched a campaign in Uttarakhand in response to the NCW’s call to address women’s issues. The first day of the public hearing was held in Dehradun, followed by the second day in Pauri district. Kandwal said that on the second day, a total of 18 serious cases were heard in detail, which included 13 written applications and five telephonic complaints. Various sensitive cases were resolved on the spot, while others will be listed in the commission through summons for further action. Some cases were forwarded to the relevant departments for prompt administrative resolution.
She further added that during the public hearing, a case involved a nursing officer posted at Pabau community health centre, who accused a colleague, Rohit Rawat, of indecent behaviour after drinking alcohol and using abusive language on social media. The chief medical officer was directed to provide an immediate explanation and ensure Rawat’s transfer, she added. Many other complaints were also presented and addressed. Kandwal said that a review of the One Stop Centre revealed that out of 540 registered cases from April 2025 to date, 460 have been successfully resolved.
Kandwal emphasised the importance of regularly forming Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in all departments. She highlighted that women often shoulder dual responsibilities at work and at home, making it crucial for the administration to prioritise respectful treatment and a safe environment for them.
