DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare and safety of the backward sections of society. In line with this commitment, Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities Dr. Baljit Kaur convened a high-level meeting to discuss the implementation of the Atrocity Act, 1989, and other significant initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities. The meeting was attended by the Additional Inspector General (AIG) of the Police Department and other senior officials.

Dr. Baljit Kaur directed that a nodal officer should be appointed at the state level to ensure justice for victims under the Atrocity Act, 1989, with a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) designated as the nodal officer at the district level. She emphasized the need for law officers to be appointed to facilitate the victims. She also instructed that a list of nodal officers be posted in public places across the state and a directory of their names and mobile numbers be released. Furthermore, She also instructed that the list of nodal officers, along with their office details, should be provided to the Department of Social Justice to ensure timely compensation and justice for the victims.

The Cabinet Minister announced that a budget provision of Rs 5.93 crore has been made for the construction of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Bhawan in Tarn Taran district. The construction of this building will start soon, marking an important step towards honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's legacy.

Additionally, Rs 2.00 crore has been earmarked for the renovation of existing Ambedkar Bhawans in various districts. Departmental officials have been instructed to expedite the renovation works to ensure that the purpose of these Bhawans is fully realized.

The meeting was attended by prominent officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Mr. D.K. Tiwari, Director Mrs. Amrit Singh, Joint Secretary Mr. Raj Bahadur Singh, and Deputy Director Mr. Ravinderpal Singh Sandhu, underscoring the Punjab Government's commitment to the upliftment and empowerment of marginalized

communities.
(editor@dailyworld.in)