Rapid Response for Women’s Safety in Bihar: Call 3-Digit Helpline, Help Will Arrive

Patna, Bihar: Ensuring swift assistance for women facing violence, the Bihar government is expanding its network of One-Stop Centres (OSCs) across the state. A total of 26 new centres are under construction, which will bring the total number of operational centres to 65. These centres aim to provide immediate relief and support to women in distress.

Immediate Assistance for Victims

Currently, each district has one OSC, while Patna has two. Each centre is staffed with a team of 13 trained personnel who offer shelter, medical care, food, clothing, psycho-social and legal counselling, and other essential services to victims of violence. New centres are being established approximately 40 km from district headquarters at sub-divisional locations, ensuring women in remote and rural areas have easy access to assistance.

Proven Track Record

Over the past three years, OSCs have registered 23,585 cases, successfully resolving more than 20,000 of them. In FY 2023-24, 7,517 cases were reported, with 6,599 resolved. In 2024-25, 8,888 cases were reported and 7,185 resolved. In the current year 2025-26, as of January, 7,180 cases have been recorded, with 6,322 successfully addressed.

3-Digit Helpline for Instant Help

Women in distress can contact the OSC helpline at 181 for immediate assistance. Additionally, the centres are linked to the Emergency Response System (112) for rapid intervention. To promote long-term empowerment, OSCs also provide skill development and financial empowerment programs for victims.

Integrated Support and Rehabilitation

One-Stop Centres provide a comprehensive support system, eliminating the need for victims to approach multiple agencies separately. In cases where counselling does not fully resolve the issue, centres coordinate with relevant stakeholders to ensure relief and protection. Victims’ situations are monitored for at least six months after resolution to prevent recurrence of violence. At the district level, OSCs are reviewed under the District Operations Committee, chaired by the District Magistrate, with participation from senior police and departmental officials. Weekly reviews are also conducted at the Women and Child Development Corporation level to ensure effective oversight.