Continuing the series of state-level consultations for the dissemination and adoption/application of the two protocols (Victim/witness protection and Minimum standards of care and support to victims of trafficking and other forms of violence) and the resource book (tested livelihood programs from South Asia), the Maharashtra Consultation was convened by Prerana in collaboration with the Department of Women and Child Development (DWCD), Government of Maharashtra. District Women and Child Officers; superintendents and program officers from state-run shelter homes; representatives from the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission; and Dr. Pramila Jarag, the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Shelter Homes’ Licensing Committee - who was also the Chief Guest of the Consultation - as well as representatives of NGOs and INGOs working in the areas of care and protection of survivors/victims participated in the Consultation.

Pointing to a number of malpractices and lacunae in the administration of shelter home facilities – both in state and privately run homes - Dr. Pramila Jarag emphasized the urgent need for changes, greater transparency and accountability. The Regional Minimum Standards Protocol provided a good link to overcoming those gaps and shortcomings. Dr. Jarang also insisted on training shelter home staff in the skills necessary to perform their tasks and in the attitudinal requirements for treating victims of trafficking and violence with understanding and with respect for their dignity.

With regard to victim protection, participants repeatedly referred to the need to train the judiciary; law enforcement agencies and NGOs providing legal aid to victims on the provisions of the Regional Victim/Witness Protection Protocol.

At the end of the consultation a “task force” was established consisting of representatives of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women; of private Homes (St. Catherine’s, Andheri; Lok Vikas Samajik Sanstha, Nasik), government Homes (Deonor Special Home, Mumbai) and Prerana to carry out focused action-oriented advocacy efforts throughout Maharashtra. A follow up meeting is scheduled to be convened jointly by Prerana and the Maharashtra State Commission for Women in the near future for members of the District Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) to further facilitate and accelerate the application of the provisions of the two protocols in the State.