Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has been appointed as the ninth chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), succeeding Rekha Sharma. Her tenure begins with immediate effect.
The appointment has been made under Section 3 of the National Commission for Women Act, 1990. It will be valid for a period of three years or until Rahatkar reaches the age of 65, whichever happens first.
Along with Rahatkar’s appointment, Archana Majumdar has been officially designated as a member of the NCW for a three-year term, according to a notification from the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
The Women and Child Development Ministry stated that Rahatkar has shown strong leadership abilities in a range of political and social roles.
During her tenure as chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women (2016-2021), Rahatkar led key initiatives such as “Sakshama” (support for acid attack survivors), “Prajwala” (linking self-help groups with Central government schemes), and “Suhita” (a 24×7 helpline for women).
She also played a pivotal role in advocating for legal reforms on issues like the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO), establishing anti-triple talaq cells, and setting up anti-human trafficking units.
In addition to this, Rahatkar introduced digital literacy programs and launched a publication titled “Saad,” focused on women’s issues. As mayor of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from 2007 to 2010, she spearheaded significant healthcare and infrastructure development projects.
(With PTI inputs)