Pune: The ‘Manodhairya’ scheme, aimed at providing financial assistance and rehabilitation to survivors of rape, acid attacks, and child abuse, has disbursed a total of ₹3.83 crore to 740 victims in the last six years. The scheme, implemented through the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), offers financial aid ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹10 lakh to help victims rebuild their lives.
According to official data, the highest disbursement was made in 2023-24, amounting to ₹1.78 crore for 208 victims. The scheme covers expenses related to medical treatment, education, legal services, shelter, and mental health support.
Financial Assistance Distribution Over the Years:
From 2018 to September 2024, the scheme has consistently supported victims, with funds allocated as follows:
2018-19: ₹15.90 lakh (73 victims)
2019-20: ₹33.25 lakh (66 victims)
2020-21: ₹23.80 lakh (60 victims)
2021-22: ₹63.25 lakh (292 victims)
2022-23: ₹66.50 lakh (41 victims)
2023-24: ₹1.78 crore (208 victims)
2024 (till September): ₹3 lakh (25 victims)
Structure of Assistance:
The financial aid is structured to ensure long-term support for victims:
₹30,000 is provided as immediate interim relief
25% of the final compensation is given in cash
75% is placed in a fixed deposit for 10 years
Interest on the deposit is provided quarterly
After 10 years, the full deposit can be withdrawn
Victims Cannot Withdraw Complaints After Receiving Aid
A key condition of the scheme is that victims must not retract their statements in court. If a victim later withdraws their complaint, leading to the case’s dismissal or proving the claim to be false, the legal authority has the right to recover the aid along with interest under revenue laws.
Sonal Patil, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority: “While ensuring strict punishment for perpetrators, the scheme’s primary objective is to help victims regain their self-respect and rebuild their lives with dignity. Compensation is determined based on the severity of the crime. If a victim retracts their statement during the trial, the committee is authorized to recover the financial assistance with interest.”
