Maharashtra Launches Free Legal Aid Cells to Support Women Facing Violence

In a decisive move to strengthen women’s access to justice, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women has launched district-level legal aid and counseling cells. The initiative aims to assist women confronting domestic violence, workplace harassment, and property disputes, ensuring that legal support is readily available in both urban and rural areas.

The first phase of the program covers Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Kolhapur, and Aurangabad, providing women with free consultations by qualified and empanelled women lawyers. The services include guidance for filing FIRs, assistance with court documentation, mediation for family-related disputes, and legal counseling for inheritance and property rights issues. In addition, a 24×7 helpline ensures that women can access support even in emergencies.

Rupali Chakankar, Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, stated that the new legal aid cells are intended to “remove the fear and financial barrier that stops women from seeking justice.” The program also includes mobile legal clinics for remote areas, with upcoming outreach in districts such as Palghar, Gadchiroli, and Nandurbar, aiming to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all women across the state.

Activists and social workers have welcomed the move, noting that the initiative comes at a critical time, especially in light of rising domestic violence complaints in the post-pandemic era. The combination of on-call support, in-person assistance, and rapid mediation services is expected to provide timely and effective intervention for women who otherwise face barriers in accessing legal remedies.

Women interested in availing themselves of the services can register through anganwadi centres, police stations, mahila thana desks, or the state helpline 181. With structured support and increased accessibility, Maharashtra sets a progressive example in empowering women to safeguard their rights and seek justice confidently.