Jagratha Samithi

Jagratha Samithi

The Jagratha Samithi (Vigilance Committee) is one of the most vital local-level statutory mechanisms functioning across Grama Panchayats in Kerala to ensure the safety of women and children and to prevent atrocities against them.

In accordance with the Panchayat Raj Act, these Jagratha Samithis are constituted in all local self-government institutions based on the directives of the State Women’s Commission.

The key details regarding this committee are outlined below:

1. Structure of the Jagratha Samithi (Panchayat Level)

The composition of the Grama Panchayat-level Jagratha Samithi is as follows:

  • Chairperson: Grama Panchayat President
  • Vice Chairperson: Grama Panchayat Vice President
  • Convener: Women and Child Development Officer
  • Co-Convener: Grama Panchayat Secretary
  • Members:
    • Chairperson of the Welfare Standing Committee
    • Concerned Circle Inspector (CI) or Sub-Inspector (SI) of Police
    • A female Advocate (nominated by the Legal Services Authority)
    • A female representative from the Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) community
    • Medical Officer
    • Kudumbashree Community Development Society (CDS) Chairperson
    • One representative elected from among the Ward-level Jagratha Samithi Conveners

Note: Apart from the apex Panchayat-level committee, Ward-level Jagratha Samithis also function actively in every ward under the leadership of the respective Ward Member.

2. Key Responsibilities and Powers

  • Redressal of Complaints: Receiving complaints regarding dowry harassment, domestic violence, denial of freedom of movement, outraging the modesty of women, and workplace exploitation, and resolving them through reconciliation or formal legal remedies.
  • Providing Legal Aid: Ensuring free legal aid, counseling, and guidance to women and children who fall victim to violence or abuse.
  • Referral of Cases: Forwarding serious offenses that cannot be settled within the purview of the committee directly to the Police, Court, or the State Women’s Commission.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Organizing ward-level awareness classes to educate the public on legal provisions and the rights of women and children.
  • Preventing Crimes: Formulating local preventive measures against critical issues like child marriage, female foeticide, and substance abuse/trafficking among children.

3. Significance of Jagratha Samithi

This committee acts as an easily accessible, quasi-judicial mechanism where ordinary women—who might otherwise hesitate to directly approach the police or courts—can fearlessly voice their grievances. All services rendered by this forum are completely free of cost.

The Jagratha Samithi generally meets once every month to review and initiate action on the complaints received.