OSCW to function as 'Mothers’ Court' to curtail divorce rate

In a bid to address the increasing divorce rates, the Odisha government has plans to establish marriage counselling centres across the State. It has also been decided that the Odisha State Commission for Women (OSCW) will function as a mothers’ court.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida unveiled these plans on Tuesday, highlighting their significance in enhancing mental health and preventing the breakdown of marriages.

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According to Deputy CM Parida, the centres will primarily aim to promote mental well-being and work actively to deter divorce proceedings. These centres are also set to offer guidance on understanding marital responsibilities better, thus aiming to fortify family bonds.

“Divorce cases relating to young couples are on the rise. Due to a lack of understanding between them, young couples are accepting sad incidents like ‘divorce’. To curtail such incidents in a culture-rich state like Odisha and to make them understand, we will observe the year 2025 as ‘divorce prevention year’,” the Deputy CM said while speaking to the media.

“The women commission (OSCW) will function as a mothers’ court. Mahila Sabhas (special meetings) will be conducted in different villages. Women will be made aware and their interests will be protected. A safe environment in workplaces will be ensured for girls. People of Odisha will witness OSCW as a more powerful body in many aspects in the days to come,” the Deputy CM expressed.

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“Family matters are coming to the fore in several places. Fifty per cent of the cases brought to either commission, family court, or the police, usually relate to family disputes. Unfortunately, such matters often lead to divorces,” Chairman of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar stated.

“We are keen to curtail the breakdown of marriages and NCW has been taking steps in this direction. The pre-marital counselling centres (which are on the anvil) will help prepare youngsters (both boys and girls) for their future marital life,” the NCW chief added.