Achham, 23 November 2025 — Saathi, under the UNFPA-supported GBVPR-II Programme, convened the Safe House Management Committee meeting in Mangalsen to review service delivery, assess safety and infrastructure gaps, and prepare for the upcoming 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. A key agenda of the meeting was the urgent relocation of the safe house to ensure minimum safety and confidentiality standards.
The meeting was chaired by Mr. Birkha Bahadur Bogati, Coordinator of the Social Development Committee, with Mayor Padam Bahadur Bohora attending as the Chief Guest. Women Development Officer Ms. Manju Mahat facilitated the session.
According to Safe House In-charge Ms. Jaisara Bohora, a total of 245 individuals, including 49 children, received services from the safe house this year. One survivor requiring advanced medical support was referred to Surkhet. She raised significant concerns regarding the current building’s inadequate infrastructure, safety issues, and lack of confidentiality — reinforcing the immediate need for relocation.
Mayor Bohora informed the committee that relocation efforts are underway, though progress has been slowed by the unavailability of a suitable building. The search for an appropriate facility is ongoing.
The committee also discussed livelihood initiatives for survivors, including vegetable farming, traditional batti making, and knitting, with plans to link the products to local markets. Stakeholders noted that existing service delivery coordination remains strong and effective.
Preparations for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence were reviewed, with a clear commitment to align activities with the national and global theme on technology-facilitated GBV. The municipality expressed readiness to lead meaningful awareness campaigns.
The grievance-handling mechanism was also examined. Although a complaint box is in place, the committee recommended revising the existing guideline to meet current service standards.
The Chair acknowledged Saathi’s consistent technical and coordination support and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to safe house relocation and gradual transition toward full municipal management.
Key Decisions:
- Fast-track the relocation of the safe house to ensure survivor safety, confidentiality, and improved service quality.
- Strengthen survivor livelihood initiatives and integrate them with local market opportunities.
- Align all 16 Days of Activism activities with the national focus on technology-facilitated GBV.
- Update the grievance-handling system to enhance accountability and survivor trust.
Action Points:
- Finalize and approve an appropriate new location for the safe house without further delay.
- Revise and update the grievance-handling guideline to reflect current operational needs.
- Continue strong inter-agency coordination to ensure uninterrupted and high-quality service delivery.
- Implement 16 Days of Activism activities consistent with the national and international theme on technology-facilitated GBV.
This meeting marked a critical step toward ensuring improved safety, confidentiality, and dignity for survivors seeking shelter services in Achham.
