SOP to combat gender-based violence

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday decided to adopt a standard operating procedure (SOP) to combat gender-based violence in the State.

The decision came in the wake of a viral video showing eunuchs being severely thrashed by 2-3 youths at Nayakguda in Malkangiri district four days ago.

The adoption of SOP was approved in an inter-departmental meeting which was convened by Development Commissioner R Balakrishnan at the State Secretariat here.

Officials attending the meeting however said it will be sent to the government for approval.

Health Secretary Arati Ahuja informed the media that the SOP will be based on taking into consideration seven points mentioned in the Constitution. These are safety and security of the victims, identity, medical examination, treatment, role of police, legal assistance and their rehabilitation.

It was also decided in the meeting to take stern action against the officials found violating the SOP.