Category: Law

MIL-OSI Australia: What to do in a thunderstorm
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Volunteers and ACT Emergency Service Agency staff attend to jobs as quickly as possible.
Canberra has already seen its fair share of storms this summer. And with more stormy weather predicted, it’s important to know how and where to get help if you need it.

Here’s how to prepare your house for a storm, and what you can do if one affects you or your property.

Keep across the weather forecast

Visit the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website for weather updates, and the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ACTESA) website ACT ESA website and social media for the latest advice.

It’s important to note that a thunderstorm forecast is different to a severe thunderstorm warning.
- A thunderstorm forecast indicates the possibility of storms throughout the forecasting period.
- A severe thunderstorm warning is issued when a storm is imminent or impacting an area.
What to do during a thunderstorm
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Keep clear of flooded creeks, rivers and stormwater drains.
- Don’t walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water
- Stay indoors away from windows and keep children and pets indoors.
Get urgent help if needed
- For help during storms and floods, ring the ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) on 132 500
- Only call Triple Zero (000) if the incident is life-threatening.
- If your situation changes and you no longer need help, please call back to cancel your request, so resources can be directed elsewhere.
It can sometimes take a while to get through to the ACTSES when there are many calls for help.

Similarly, it can take some time for crews to attend to smaller jobs like a leaking roof, or water that has subsided. Please be patient during this time.

The ACTSES only makes temporary repairs to homes damaged in storms or floods.

If you have permanent damage to your home, you will need to contact your insurance provider to resolve the problem.

If you’ve lost power

Report power outages to Evoenergy.

If you have a live power line that has come down and is damaged on the ground, do not go near it. Call Evoenergy.

The latest updates on power outages can be found on the Evoenergy website or on their Facebook and Twitter pages.

Alternatively, you can call the Evoenergy hotline on 13 10 93.

Access emergency accommodation

If you need emergency accommodation, please contact OneLink on 1800 176 468 or via info@onelink.org.au.

OneLink provides information and connections for support services in the ACT. This includes services for people at risk of homelessness due to their homes being uninhabitable.

Find emergency food relief support

If you, or someone you know is experiencing hardship and cannot feed yourself or your family, support is available.

Volunteering ACT coordinates information about where to get food relief services including meals and local food pantries.

Find more information on the Volunteering ACT website.

For further information please contact the Community Info Hub on 02 6248 7988.

Dispose of spoiled food

If you have lost power and have food that has spoiled, simply dispose of it in your home compost or your general waste (landfill) bin.

Remember that you can also remove any recyclable packaging and place it in your recycling bin.

Dealing with fallen trees

Do you know what to do if a tree presents a serious and immediate safety risk?
- Call 000 if a tree is causing an immediate threat to life
- For assistance with a fallen tree following a storm event, call the SES on 13 25 00
- If a tree is touching or has fallen on power lines or telephone wires, call Evoenergy on 13 10 93
- For trees on public land, you can submit a request online using Fix My Street or call Access Canberra.
If a tree on your property needs urgent attention, you still need permission from the ACT Government to remove it.

Contact an arborist immediately and call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 to ask for ‘urgent circumstances authorisation for tree removal’.

To learn more visit https://bit.ly/4661opO.

Be storm ready – preparing your home

Ahead of time, remember to do all you can to prepare your home and family for any possible impacts of forecasted storms.

Complete or update your 20-minute Survival Plan.

Take some preventative actions around your home. These include:
- cleaning your gutters
- checking stormwater drains
- trimming overhanging branches.
To prepare for severe weather:
- move your car under cover and away from trees
- secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony
- secure any temporary repairs that are in place as a result of a previous storm
- stay vigilant and monitor conditions.
Remember, if you need urgent help

For assistance in a storm or flood, call the ACT State Emergency Service on 132 500.

In a life-threatening emergency call Triple-Zero (000).

You can find more information on storms on the ACT Emergency Services Agency website.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Get ready for the 2024 school year
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

This year there will be changes to term dates, policies and programs that may involve your family.
Canberra families are about to start another exciting school year.

This year there will be changes to term dates, policies and programs that may involve your family.

Here is everything you need to know for the year ahead.

Student-free days and start of term

From 2024, there will be four student-free days for ACT public schools. These are the first day of each school term.

Student-free days are for staff development, enabling teachers and schools to plan in a student-free environment.

Monday 29 January will be a student-free day.

On Tuesday 30 January, new students will start school. Continuing students will return to school on Wednesday 31 January.

Other term dates for the 2024 school year:
Friday 12 April– Term 1 ends

Tuesday 30 April – Term 2 begins (students start school)

Friday 5 July – Term 2 ends

Tuesday 23 July – Term 3 begins (students start school)

Friday 27 September – Term 3 ends

Tuesday 15 October – Term 4 begins (students start school)

Tuesday 17 December – Term 4 ends.
Financial assistance

The Future of Education Equity Fund (Equity Fund) offers eligible families financial support to help with school essentials. It supports the more vulnerable families in our community.

Low-income families of students – from preschool through to year 12 – can receive a one-off, annual payment. This is to help cover the costs of schooling, such as:
uniforms

sport equipment and activities

tuition

music lessons.
The Equity Fund payments are $400 (preschool), $500 (primary school), and $750 (high school and college level, including CIT Year 11 and 12).

Equity Fund applications for the 2024 school year are now open.

Families can apply for all eligible students in their family in the one application, regardless of whether they attend different schools.

School staff are also able to help families to apply.

Applications close in November 2024.

Find out more about eligibility criteria and how to apply online.

Mobile phone policy

A new mobile phone policy for all ACT public schools starts in term 1 2024.
Students in preschool to year 10 at ACT public schools may not use or access personal communication devices at school. This includes recess and lunch, and during school authorised events.

For year 11 and 12 students, mobile phones and other personal communication devices must be silenced and put away during class time.
Students can request an exemption if they need their device for medical or other specific reasons.

Schools will communicate their expectations about how and where to store devices at the beginning of the school year.

Healthy lunches

It includes a Grab and Go shopping list and tips for a waste-free lunchbox. You’ll also find tips on which food groups to include and how to swap for healthier options.

Wellbeing for students

A new school year can be tough for some students, whether they are:
starting a new school

moving into high school or college

just dealing with any of the life changes thrown their way.
The ACT Government has online resources that could be helpful in starting conversations on finding ways to support them.

Asthma management

If your child has asthma, the start of the school year is a good time to make sure you’re managing it.

You may wish to:
book an asthma review with your child’s GP

update your child’s asthma action plan with their GP

make sure the school has your child’s reliever medication and spacer

talk to school staff

book an appointment with one of the asthma nurse educators at Canberra Health Services.
Child development

Are you concerned about your child’s development? The start of a new year is a good time to contact the Child Development Service, to access free drop-in clinics and assessments.

Free three-year-old preschool

ACT three-year-olds can now benefit from 300 hours of free preschool at over 140 locations.

This will save the average family around $1,329 a year.

Read more and find where to access three-year-old preschool.

Period products at all schools

In 2023 the ACT Government passed new legislation to make free period products available at a range of community locations across the ACT for anyone who needs them.

This includes at every ACT public school, which is something we already do as a system, and will continue to do.

Pads and tampons are available in ACT public high schools, colleges, and combined schools. Pads are available in ACT public primary schools.

They can be accessed at any time during the school day from the school front office for staff, students, and visitors.

The ACT Government will deliver the broader project in stages and a procurement process for dispensers to be installed in public places, including ACT public schools, will occur in 2024.

The Education Directorate will continue to work with ACT Health to ensure age-appropriate information on menstrual hygiene is available for students through our schools.

Read more about free period products.

Public transport for students

From Monday 29 January dedicated school services will resume. This includes ‘S’ trips which divert into schools.

Please check your timetable so you are prepared and ready.

If your child is in primary school, you can refer to your school’s pack to plan your child’s travel. Find it on the Transport Canberra website.

If your child is new to school or changing schools, please check available school bus and light rail information on the Transport Canberra website.

Familiarise yourself and your child with their school routine. They should know which stop the bus will pick up from in the morning and where to get off at the end of the day.

Make sure your child has a MyWay card that is registered and topped up with sufficient funds. A MyWay card is easy to get and will save you time and money. Find out more about ticketing and MyWay.

School bus services are available to school students only. Under special circumstances, parents with young children may apply to travel on these services for a few weeks to help their child get used to bus travel. Find out more about parents travelling on school bus services.

If you’re a student in college or tertiary education, check the Journey Planner for timings. Just enter your destination for the fastest, most convenient options.

To stay up-to-date with Transport Canberra updates, including changes to services and latest news, you can:

40 km/h school zones

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. As students return to school, remember to slow down and stick to the 40 km/h limit around schools between 8am and 4pm.

Mobile speed vans and police regularly patrol school zones. Let’s all slow down and support kids’ safety.

Parking around schools

The start of the school year is a particularly busy time in Canberra’s school carparks and surrounding streets.

Unsafe and illegal parking reduces visibility for students and motorists. This creates a hazard when students cross the road.

Parking inspectors and license plate recognition vehicles will be out and about enforcing safe parking around schools.

For drop-offs and pick-ups, arrange a meeting spot, arrive after the rush, or park a little further away from the school and walk with your kids the rest of the way.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Free period products for Canberrans
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Students in ACT public school can access free period products.
The ACT Government is supporting free period products for Canberrans.

Students in ACT public schools can already access free period products.

Free period products are also available at some locations in Canberra including:
some ACT public health services

the Child and Family Centres located in Gungahlin, West Belconnen and Tuggeranong

the Child Development Service in Holder.
The ACT Government will make period products in more locations in a staged approach over the coming months and years.

The government will provide regular updates about the availability of free period products. It will also provide age-appropriate information in languages other than English.

This is an important initiative to reduce period poverty. It will help people who menstruate to manage their periods in a safe and healthy way.

The ACT follows Scotland as only the second jurisdiction in the world to enshrine free period products in law. This aims to end period poverty and give people who menstruate the dignity they deserve.

The ACT Government remains committed to free period products for Canberrans.

In the 2023/24 mid- year budget, the ACT Government has committed to support the roll out of free period products, ahead of the start of the Period Products and Facilities (Access) Act 2023.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Support for Canberra Olympians and Paralympians

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Extra funding will support local athletes like Jack Cleary, Angela Ballard and Chad Perris.

The ACT Government is backing Canberran Olympic and Paralympic athletes with extra funding.

The Paris Olympic Games are in July, and the Paralympic Games are in August this year.

The extra funding will help local athletes prepare to qualify to represent Australia in the lead up to the games. “The funding to me and the whole rowing team allows us to be the best we can be,” Olympic athlete Jack Cleary said.

“At the games, it is an absolute whirlwind, and we need to keep ourselves central and not worry about the things you can’t control. They are being managed by the staff who come along to help us – which this funding helps to support,” he said.

The ACT has a history of supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes. It was the first jurisdiction in Australia to fund the Olympic and Paralympic Teams equally.

Paralympic athlete Chad Perris says the timing of the funding is key.

“We have a lot of extra costs, whether travel, equipment, there are a lot of things that go into getting us over the line to get us to Paris,” he said.

“I’m really excited about this funding and to have it as equal funding with our Olympic counterparts is really exciting.”

“The Paralympic team funding from the ACT Government is huge,” Paralympic athlete Angela Ballard said.

“I know from behind the scenes how much it takes just to get our athletes over there and make sure we have the resources we need to perform.

“On a personal level, the ACT Government funding grants for individual ACT athletes will make a big difference. We still have a lot of work to do to keep up our training and to qualify between now and the Games, and this support will be of great help,” she said.

Canberra is home to elite athletes training at both the Australian Institute of Sport and ACT Academy of Sport. Despite being the smallest jurisdiction in Australia, ACT athletes have a strong presence at each Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

The ACT Government will provide funding support through the Mid-Year Budget Review. This includes both direct financial assistance and in-kind training assistance through the ACT Academy of Sport.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Career change renews teacher’s passion

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Blair Merton is excited to get back into teaching and has several goals for the year ahead.

After a 15-year break from teaching, Blair Merton is keen to return to the classroom.

The avid reader and history buff will teach history and geography at Kaleen High.

He will also run a Strategy Games Club, where students play miniature wargames.

He’s the ideal person to coordinate this, having served in the Australian Army during his teaching pause.

“I’d taught at a few different high schools around Canberra throughout the 2000s – Canberra High, Lanyon and Belconnen – before taking an extended hiatus from teaching in 2009,” Blair said.

He moved to the Education section of the Australian War Memorial before enlisting in the Army and being posted to Darwin.

“Life in the military meant that I was part of a wider family of a diverse range of people and experiences, and as an older soldier, I often found myself helping others through their personal trials and tribulations. I often found myself helping some younger soldiers with their written aspects of their courses and administrative work. I was probably the worst shot in the Army, but I did have a knack for communicating,” he said.

The thought of returning to teaching was never completely out of his mind.

“My wife began working as a midwife, and we both decided that due to the stresses and strains of our professions we would return to Canberra where we could be closer to our extended families,” he said.

Although Blair isn’t new to teaching in the Territory, he joins the almost 170 new educators working in ACT public schools this year.

He is excited to get back into it and has several goals in mind for the year ahead.

“I’m aiming to improve my student outcomes, their skills. I want to inspire curiosity and build people of good character. I always try to remind my students that a good life means building a balanced life, and I try to remind them of the principles of justice, courage and wisdom. The Ancients started this kind of education back in the day, and there’s still a lot of merit in those principles.

“The best thing about my subject area is that you make links between all the various disciplines of science, literature and maths in order for students to see the world around them and develop an appreciation of that world, because one day they’ll take custodianship of it,” Blair said.

Blair understands how a good schooling experience can shape a person.

“My favourite subjects in school were History and English. My favourite school was Higgins Primary – I have so many good memories from those days. Playing rugby and cricket, watching BTN on the TV trolley, the fetes, discos and Saturday afternoon matinees in the school hall,” he said.

He is pleased to be back in Canberra and views the lifestyle here as conducive to an active family life.

“Canberra has lots of opportunities for my children to play sport, attend events and take up hobbies. My family loves living near the bushland, and we regularly run and walk our greyhound on the back tracks. I love playing music in my band, The Lonely Fates, and the Canberra music scene is so much bigger and more professional nowadays,” he said.

Who knows? For someone so comfortable with change, perhaps a move into Kaleen High’s music department could also be on the cards in future.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Next stage in city-wide FOGO collection
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Canberra’s FOGO facility will recycle food waste at scale into valuable compost, reducing waste going into landfill.
Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) facility has reached a milestone with the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) now open for community feedback.

Delivering a large-scale FOGO facility remains an ACT Government priority.

The industrial-level facility will be capable of processing 50,000 tonnes of FOGO material per year.

It will recycle food waste at scale into valuable compost, reducing waste going into landfill.

Since November 2021, the FOGO collection pilot has serviced households in Belconnen, Bruce, Cook and Macquarie. In that time, it has collected more than 2,844 tonnes of food waste.

These insights will assist the ACT Government to roll out the service city wide.

The composting facility is proposed to be an in-vessel facility, with indoor composting tunnels and other mitigation measures minimising odour impacts.

Local residents and the wider Canberra community are encouraged to take a look at the EIS and provide any feedback.

The public notification period for the EIS commenced on Monday 29 January 2024, and closes on Tuesday 12 March 2024.

Community feedback has already been taken onboard in the preparation of the EIS.

Additional feedback from the community and key stakeholder groups is an important part of the government’s decision making as it progresses to the next steps of planning and design.

FOGO is a key part of the government’s plans for a circular economy in Canberra.

Organic waste decomposition in landfill currently accounts for more than seven per cent of Canberra’s greenhouse emissions.

Canberrans can share their thoughts on the draft environmental impact statement on the ACT Planning website.

There will also be three information sessions:
- Session 1: Saturday 17 February 2024, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, Chisholm Village Shopping Centre
- Session 2: Wednesday 21 February 2024, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, Gowrie Shops
- Session 3: Thursday 29 February 2024, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, Mawson Southlands Shopping Centre.
Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Shirley Smith High School opens its doors

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

School principal Rebecca Pearce looks forward to welcoming students.

Shirley Smith High School in East Gungahlin has officially opened its doors to students for the first time.

More than 80 year seven students now attend the new school, located in Kenny.

“No matter what school I’ve worked in, there’s nothing like that first day, when the kids come with their brand-new uniform and their bags and their excitement about the shift from primary school to high school,” Shirley Smith High School Principal Rebecca Pearce said.

“It’s a really important transition and we want to capture that excitement with them.

“That’s what I’m really looking forward to: getting their energy and then continuing that energy right through the year.”

Shirley Smith High School will cater to up to 800 year 7-10 student in the East Gungahlin region. Students will join the school in a phased approach, beginning with year seven students in 2024.

The school’s motto is ‘grow with us’.

“We teach the whole child and we’re really about developing a young person to be a successful learner right through their life,” Rebecca said.

“Rather than trying to focus really narrowly on the curriculum content and concepts, it’s about that broad understanding of who you are as a learner, what are your strengths and weaknesses and building on those within the Australian curriculum framework.”

The new high school responds to the rapid growth in Gungahlin, one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia.

“‘Grow with us’ is also about being a high school in a community that hasn’t even been built yet,” Rebecca said.

“And actually, being a community school that understands who their students and families are and caters to the needs of every single student.”

For the last nine months, Rebecca has recruited a team that includes specialist teachers across all curriculum areas. She’s also created systems and processes to support the staff and students, while leaving space for decision making in response to the school community.

“We’ll be able to really listen to what their needs are and make changes in a way that supports positive growth because we’ve got that staggered, staged approach.”

Shirley Smith High School has been designed with visible and flexible learning in mind.

“Teachers can move walls and make changes very quickly. I think that’s the key to meeting the young person’s needs: that level of flexibility within the structure of the school,” Rebecca said.

“We have every resource at our fingertips for us to run a comprehensive program.”

Spaces for community hire and use are also available at Shirley Smith High School. These include a double gymnasium with basketball, netball, futsal and volleyball markings. There is also a covered hard court suitable for basketball and netball and an oval for soccer, rugby union and rugby league games. The multipurpose hall is also available for community use.

Read more about Shirley Smith High School.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Susan Ryan sculpture approved for Senate Gardens

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Artist Lis Johnson has completed numerous life-size bronze sculptures in Canberra.

The Federal Parliament has approved the installation of a sculpture to honour the late Senator Susan Ryan AO FAICD (1942-2020) in the Parliamentary Zone.

Senator Ryan dedicated her life to public service through many different roles.

She held public office as a Senator in the ACT and Minister in the Hawke government.

Senator Ryan also worked in senior roles across the private and public sectors.

Her distinguished career included many firsts. She was the first Senator for the Australian Capital Territory. She was also the first woman appointed to a Labor frontbench position and the first Age Discrimination Commissioner.

The life-size bronze sculpture of Susan Ryan will be adjacent to the Senate Rose Gardens eastern central entry.

The location is near where she once had an office in Old Parliament House. The art work will be in an area featuring a curved bench seat, new paving, and interpretive signage.

The ACT Government commissioned the sculpture which recognises the contribution that Susan Ryan made to Australian public life.

It acknowledges her advancement of women’s rights as a Minister and her role in creating the Sex Discrimination Act – an enduring reform that changed Australia.

Artist Lis Johnson has completed several life-size bronze sculptures. These include those of Dame Enid Lyons and Dame Dorothy Tangney, who stand adjacent to Old Parliament House, and Sir John Gorton (with Suzie Q) in Parkes.

Lis has been working closely with Susan Ryan’s family, ensuring they are involved at every stage of the work.

“We are so thrilled that the sculpture of our mother Susan Ryan will be located in the Senate Rose Gardens at the Old Parliament House,” Justine Butler, Susan’s daughter, said.

“For my brother Ben and I, this was the parliament house. We spent a lot of time there, with our mother, and we have happy memories of those gardens, so close to her office.

“My mother and her colleagues played social tennis games there in the summer, and all year round, the beautiful gardens provided an important place for Susan to think and work,” she said.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: More paramedics to be employed in Canberra

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The new roster will mean the ACT Ambulance Service will be even better placed to meet community demands.

The ACT Government will increase the number of frontline paramedics employed by implementing a new ACT Ambulance Service (ACTAS) roster.

These changes mean an additional 11 paramedic crews will be rostered on over a 24-hour period.

This will improve fatigue management practices and create a better work-life balance for paramedics. The change will also mean that ACTAS will be even better placed to meet community demands for ambulance services.

In addition, training and development requirements will be covered by rostered resources and operational resourcing flexibility will be increased. Meal breaks will also be accessed more regularly and there would be less need for paramedics to work past their shift times.

As part of the 2023-24 Budget Review, the government is investing $19.7 million over four years to enable the implementation of the new roster.

To achieve the new roster, changes need to be made to the ACTAS enterprise agreement. This agreement has been in negotiation for several months and is in the final stages of negotiation between the ACT Government and the Transport Workers Union.

Paramedics and the ambulance service perform a vital role in the Canberra community, responding to those in need when and where they need help most. This improved roster will better enable paramedics to meet those needs – while also supporting their wellbeing and professional development.

“Investing in staffing will mean paramedics will continue to enjoy rewarding careers in the ACT Ambulance Service, with improved rostering leading to better outcomes for all,” ACTAS Chief Officer Howard Wren said.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

March 31, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crackdown on illegal working and rogue employers in ‘gig economy’
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Crackdown on illegal working and rogue employers in ‘gig economy’

In the latest move to restore order to the asylum and immigration system, the government will introduce tough new laws to clamp down on illegal working.
Companies hiring people in the gig economy will now be legally required to carry out checks confirming that anyone working in their name is eligible to work in the UK, bringing them in line with other employers. These vital checks, which take just minutes to complete, confirm someone’s immigration status and allow them to legally work in the UK.

This means that for the very first time, employment checks will be extended to cover businesses hiring gig economy and zero-hours workers in sectors like construction, food delivery, beauty salons and courier services.

Currently, thousands of companies using these flexible arrangements are not legally required to check the status of these workers. This changes now.

Where businesses fail to carry out these checks, they will face hefty penalties already in place for those hiring illegal workers in traditional roles, including fines of up to £60,000 per worker, business closures, director disqualifications and potential prison sentences of up to 5 years.

Expanding illegal working checks will help level the playing field for the majority of honest companies who do the right thing. For example, Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats already voluntarily carry out checks to ensure their delivery riders are eligible to work.

Clamping down on illegal working forms a critical part of the government’s plan to strengthen the entire immigration system, restoring tough enforcement of the rules and undermine people smugglers using the false promise of jobs for migrants.

The announcement comes a day before the UK holds the first ever Organised Immigration Crime Summit, bringing together over 40 countries to agree unprecedented new international action to take down every aspect of criminal smuggling gangs’ tactics.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

Under our Plan for Change, we are restoring order to the asylum and immigration system by introducing tougher laws and bolstering enforcement action to tackle illegal working and stopping rogue employers in their tracks.

Turning a blind eye to illegal working plays into the hands of callous people smugglers trying to sell spaces on flimsy, overcrowded boats with the promise of work and a life in the UK.

These exploitative practices are often an attempt to undercut competitors who are doing the right thing. But we are clear that the rules need to be respected and enforced.

These new laws build on significant efforts to stop organised immigration crime and protect the integrity of our borders, including increasing raids and arrests for illegal working and getting returns of people who have no right to be here to their highest rate in half a decade.

Claire Pointon, Managing Director, Just Eat UK and Ireland said:

Just Eat is committed to supporting high streets and communities by ensuring a fair and well-regulated rapid delivery sector. Preventing unauthorised work is key to this, which is why we’re strengthening our measures by introducing biometric checks to swiftly remove those without the correct authorisation to work in the UK. We welcome this decision from the Home Office to expand these requirements to other sectors.

A Deliveroo spokesperson said:

Deliveroo has led the industry in taking action to secure our platform against illegal working, developing our approach in close collaboration with the Home Office. We were the first to roll out direct right to work checks, a registration process, daily identity verification and now additional device checks for riders, including substitutes. We take our responsibilities extremely seriously and will continue to strengthen our controls to prevent misuse of our platform. We welcome the government taking action to ensure all businesses and sectors adopt the same standards.

An Uber Eats spokesperson said:

Uber Eats is fully committed to fighting illegal work and the criminal networks who are often behind it, including by introducing state of the art identity and document video verification technology and mandatory substitute registration. We welcome efforts to enable and enforce further controls, and create a level playing field across the sector.

The checks take minutes to complete, and the Home Office provide this free of charge, with businesses able to utilise digital ID verification technology to support the process. There is also support in place for employers with enquiries about the process.

The new laws further build on measures announced in November to equip Immigration Enforcement teams with new technology. From May, body worn cameras will be rolled out to officers on the front line tackling illegal working and organised immigration crime. Backed by £5 milllion, this will help officers collect evidence to support prosecutions and make sure exploitative businesses undermining our immigration system are held to account.

The new measures go alongside a ramp-up of operational action by Immigration Enforcement teams, who since July have carried out 6,784 illegal working visits to premises and made 4,779 arrests – an increase of 40% and 42% compared to the same period 12 months ago. In that time, 1,508 civil penalty notices have been issued.

This also follows wider measures within the legislation announced earlier this month to impose tougher restrictions on foreign criminals whose removal we are pursuing but we are presently unable to deport. This includes the use of electronic tags, night time curfews and exclusion zones. Breaching these conditions would be grounds for arrest and the individual could face imprisonment.

The measures will help ensure the Home Office maintains close contact with individuals and makes it very clear that they should not become established in the UK, as the intention remains to remove them when possible.

Tomorrow (31 March 2025), the Home Secretary will convene key government and law enforcement leads at the UK’s 2 day landmark international Organised Immigration Crime Summit.

This will include Immigration Enforcement, the Department for Business and Trade, the Gangmasters Labour Abuse Authority and the National Crime Agency, holding a roundtable to discuss the importance of shutting down illegal working and government’s ongoing surge in operational activity.

The summit will bring together leaders from across the globe, with the aim of securing international commitments to intensify efforts against organised immigration crime gangs.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 30 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: AUT Dean’s outburst shows virus of racism alive and well in universities

Source: ACT Party

“A racist outburst from the Dean of the AUT Law School targeting an ACT MP on the basis of her being an immigrant reveals exactly why we need the Treaty Principles Bill,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

In response to Dr Parmjeet Parmar’s draft bill to stop the allocation of university resources based on race, Khylee Quince posted on Facebook: ‘Alternative headline: Immigrant forgets where she lives.’

Dr Parmar has responded, saying: “I am a New Zealand citizen and I am not here at Ms Quince’s mercy, or anyone’s mercy. I know exactly where I live: in a democracy where everyone has the right to freedom from discrimination. Including immigrants.“

“This law school Dean believes immigrants should be singled out for different treatment,” says Mr Seymour.

“The Vice Chancellor needs to stop this rhetoric. How many immigrant students study law at AUT? Should they be treated differently with demands to ‘remember where they live?’

“In another time that would be called racism. But it’s 2025 and institutions like universities have cloaked that kind of view with respectability.

“Of course, all New Zealand citizens are either immigrants or descended from immigrants. It’s extraordinary that we need to debate whether some citizens should have the same basic rights as other citizens, but here we are.

“Whether the Treaty promised equal rights is a civil rights issue, and our major institutions are on the wrong side of history. They’re experiencing collective brain rot.

“Universities are infecting the minds of young people with the virus of identity politics. Journalism and law schools are pumping out young left-wing activists who believe tangata whenua and tangata tiriti should have different rights.

“The courts, of course, have decided the Treaty is a partnership requiring different rights for different groups. The question is, what will our elected Parliament decide when it’s asked to take a stand?”

Editor’s note: AUT Dean of Law Khylee Quince has previously drawn attention for saying Gary Judd KC “can go die quietly in the corner” for opposing compulsory tikanga studies at law schools.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic control in place after burst pipe, Washington Road

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

District:

Police are assisting with traffic control on Washington Road, Nelson, after a water pipe has burst.

Diversions are in place near Pioneers Park.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area, if possible.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nina Wang trustee names governors

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The trustee of the charitable trust for the estate of the late Nina Wang has formed its board of governors, with five independent individuals and two government officials being appointed, the Department of Justice announced today.

The members of the board of governors are Annie Tam, Rimsky Yuen, Clement Chan, Ronick Chan, Lam Ching-choi, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui and Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak.

The department said that under the supervision of the supervisory managing organisation (SMO), the board of governors will promptly commence preparatory work for administering the trust. This includes preparing for and fleshing out the details of a “fund and a Chinese prize of worldwide significance similar to that of the Nobel Prize” and other charitable projects.

The trustee will in due course disclose the scheme of administration for the late Mrs Wang’s estate and other related information pursuant to the terms of the scheme and its Articles of Association.

The department said it will continue to follow up on outstanding legal proceedings and related arrangements until the estate is fully vested in the trustee from the interim administrators.

The trustee of the trust’s charitable estate is Nina Wang Charity Management. The three members of the SMO responsible for supervising the trustee’s operations are Rita Fan, Joseph Yam and Cheng Yan-kee.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Gov’t exams tentatively set for Jun

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today announced that the Common Recruitment Examination (CRE) has been tentatively scheduled for June 7.

Enrolment for the CRE will open tomorrow and close on April 11. Prospective applicants for civil service posts at the degree or professional level should apply via the online application system on the Civil Service Bureau webpage.

The pool of eligible candidates for civil service jobs requiring an undergraduate degree has been expanded to students in their third year of undergraduate studies in a four-year curriculum.

This means that those eligible to sit for the examination include holders of a degree or of professional qualification that meet the entry requirement of the posts, and undergraduate students graduating in the 2024-25 or 2025-26 academic year.

Meanwhile, the bureau will launch a digitalised Basic Law & National Security Law Test (Degree/Professional Grades) (BLNST), providing a digitalised examination service at a fixed test centre so that candidates can take the test throughout the year rather than on designated test dates.

In view of the coming launch of the digitalised BLNST, with effect from June, the paper-based BLNST will not be organised on the same day of the CRE in Hong Kong. Implementation details of the digitalised test will be announced in the second quarter of 2025.

Details about the upcoming CRE will be uploaded to the bureau’s webpage tomorrow.

Call the Civil Service Examinations Unit at 2537 6429 or send an email for enquiries.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt rejects UK report

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has denounced the UK’s “Six-monthly report on Hong Kong: July to December 2024”, stating that it contains the slanders and smears about various aspects of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it condemned and rejected the UK’s misleading and irresponsible remarks, which it labelled “despicable political maneouvres” intended to interfere in Hong Kong’s law-based governance.

It added that the Sino-British Joint Declaration is about China’s resumption of sovereignty over Hong Kong, and that the UK has no sovereignty, jurisdiction or right of supervision over Hong Kong following the city’s return to the motherland.

It urged the UK to discern facts from fallacies, respect international law and the basic norms governing international relations, and stop interfering in Hong Kong matters, stressing that these are purely China’s internal affairs.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said the report contained “absurd and false contents” with regard to the laws safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong SAR. It outlined that the UK Government had vilified Hong Kong’s law enforcement agencies, and its prosecutorial and judicial authorities, in claiming that fulfillment of their duties constituted an “erosion of rights and freedoms”.

It also emphasised that Hong Kong law enforcement agencies’ actions are evidence-based and are taken in strict accordance with the law in respect of acts committed by people or entities, having nothing to do with their political views, background or occupation. It added that any suggestion that certain individuals or organisations should be immune from legal consequences for their illegal acts totally runs contrary to the spirit of the rule of law.

The statement highlighted that absconders hiding in the UK and other western countries are wanted and subject to arrest warrants issued by Hong Kong courts not because they “exercised freedom of expression”, but because they continue to blatantly engage in activities endangering national security. These activities include inciting secession and requesting that foreign countries engage in hostile activities against the Peoples Republic of China and the Hong Kong SAR. The statement outlined that it is therefore necessary to take all lawful measures, including “specified measures” under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, to combat acts of abscondment.

Stressing that time was given for the absconders to return to Hong Kong to face law enforcement and legal proceedings before the measures were taken, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the absconders failed to do so.

It added that all “specified measures”, including the cancellation of Hong Kong SAR passports, align with human rights requirements, and that countries such as the UK would impose the same measures on wanted criminals.

It said that the UK had demonstrated hypocrisy and that its unwarranted and inappropriate comments on criminal proceedings which are ongoing in Hong Kong courts betrayed a complete disregard for the rule of law.

Separately, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that non-referral of a prisoner who has committed an offence endangering national security to the Post-release Supervision Board is a preventive measure that does not of itself increase the prisoner’s sentence and should not be regarded as punishment.

It explained that in deciding whether an early release would be contrary to the interests of national security, the Commissioner of Correctional Services will carry out his duties in strict accordance with the law and deal with every case fairly and impartially.

The Hong Kong SAR Government underscored that the rule of law in Hong Kong is strong and robust and can stand the test of time, adding that the city’s common law system will not be changed because of the departure of individual overseas non-permanent judges.

It also stressed that the mechanisms for safeguarding national security in the city do not undermine independent judicial power, and that the city’s judicial system continues to be protected by the Basic Law. It said that when adjudicating cases concerning offences endangering national security, as in any other cases, judges remain independent, impartial and free from any interference in performing their judicial duties.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ attends seminars of Supreme People’s Procuratorate and Supreme People’s Court in Beijing (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

SJ attends seminars of Supreme People’s Procuratorate and Supreme People’s Court in Beijing
Mr Lam attended the seminar of the National Prosecutors College under the SPP this morning and shared with over 1 000 participants on-site and online the work of the Department of Justice in prosecution and safeguarding public interests under the principle of “one country, two systems”. Mr Lam then had a working lunch with the First Deputy Prosecutor General of the SPP, Mr Tong Jianming, to learn more about the college’s initiatives in nurturing high-level and high-quality prosecutorial talent in the country.

In the afternoon, Mr Lam met with Mr Ying and discussed over dinner the strengthening of legal exchanges and co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland. They also exchanged views on issues of mutual concern.Issued at HKT 19:23

NNNN

CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival to open in April (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival to open in April
Opening Week Programmes
______________________

Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991)
___________________________________

    Kicking off the festival is the opening programme “Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991)” to be staged on April 4 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre. Renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey (Eric So) will perform together with a live band. Following the performance, there will be a screening of “The Banquet” (1991) (4K digitally restored version), a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung, featuring a cast of legendary stars. The opening programme, blending entertainment with cultural artistry, offers audiences a fresh and inspiring perspective on the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s pop culture.

ImagineLand 2025
_______________

     Another highlight of the PCF is an outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025” to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Supported and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night. “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions including Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the United States, Australia, France, the United Kingdom and Ukraine. The event showcases boundless possibilities of music across the performances. Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.

    In addition to the music concert, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists. Visitors can learn about the history of Hong Kong’s comics and animation while taking photos with comic characters. In addition, “Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music, and crafts for public participation. In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies: “Table For Six” (2022) and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996) on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.

     Other festival highlights include:

Film Screening
____________

     Apart from “The Banquet” (1991), the Hong Kong Film Archive will hold a “Laughter Double Bill: Hong Kong Comedy Film Spectacular” film screening, showcasing eight pairs of thematically related classic films from the 1940s to the 2000s, including “Black Rose” (1965) (2K Digital Version) and “92 The Legendary la Rose Noire” (1992), “The Judge Goes to Pieces” (1948), and “Justice, My Foot!”(1992), showcasing the comedic sparks of master comedians from different eras while illustrating the evolution of Hong Kong comedy films.

Exhibitions
_________

     “Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics”, running from May this year to March 2026 at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, will showcase exhibits related to Hong Kong comedy comics from different periods. The exhibition will also feature the creative concepts and artistic features behind them, showing the unique charm of Hong Kong comedy comics.

     Another exhibition, “Legends of HK Film Comedies, 1980s and 1990s”, to be held from May to October at the Hong Kong Film Archive, will feature a wide selection of highlights from different films, offering an amusing window into the past. In-depth analysis of the films by renowned actors and behind-the-scenes filmmakers will also be offered to reveal the essence of Hong Kong humour.

Library Activities
_____________

     To support the PCF’s theme of “More Than Joy”, the Hong Kong Public Libraries will organise a series of activities under the theme of “Happy Reading” from April to August. This will feature book displays with themes “Delightful Comics”, “Into the World of Movies” and “Music Delights: from Classical Music to Popular Songs”. It will also include subject talks on “Hong Kong Comics” and “Hong Kong Style Humor Films”, as well as workshops on “Digital Art – Creative Comic Drawing” and “National Games Comics Path”, all aimed at sharing fun and happiness through comics, music and films. The “Meet-the-Authors 2025” will focus on “Joyful Writing” to explore writing and positivity. In April, Dr Chan Kai-tai, a psychiatrist and lyricist, will speak on “When Words meet Music and Mind: Cantopop and Well-being” to explore how the lyrics of Cantopop promote our mental well-being.

Performing Arts
_____________

     The 2025 Fiesta of Music Office Bands, Choirs and Orchestras-Bands “The Animated Melodies – Our Nostalgic Memories” will be held at Yuen Long Theatre in April, showcasing all-time favourite theme songs from animations such as “Nintama Rantar??” and “The Lion King”, and a medley of works by Akira Toriyama to transport audiences back to nostalgic moments. Another two “Let’s Have Fun with Music” concerts by Pan Asia Symphony Orchestra in May will blend the best of classical and pop music. To heighten the excitement, original animations crafted by local talents will be woven into the concert, making it a truly engaging and enjoyable concert. Meanwhile, “Vivek Mahbubani Stand-up Comedy – Funny made in Hong Kong” by Hong Kong born stand-up comedian Vivek Mahbubani will feature jokes about the funny things of Hong Kong’s golden standard of “fast, beautiful and awesome” in June.

   In pop music, “Ko Shan Fest” will be staged at Ko Shan Theatre in June, featuring two concerts curated by renowned producer and music director Carl Wong. Wong will collaborate with bands with diverse backgrounds and styles to reintroduce audiences to the history and culture of Hong Kong band music. Another two “Music & Laughs” concerts will be held in July at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Curated by veteran producer Edward Chan in collaboration with pop music artists and the Symphonic Pops Orchestra and band, the performance invites the audience to explore together: What is comedy? Several popular artists will join this feast and details will be announced later.

     Alongside the above programmes, several industry partners will be offering a range of events as part of the festival, which are not to be missed. These include “My Stage@HKCC 2025/26 – Saturday Music Live” by Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups; “2025 Hong Kong Reading +” by the Hong Kong Publishing Federation; “JITN – SHAG” by the Jazz World (Hong Kong) Ltd & Count-in Music Ltd; “Cinema Day 2025” by Hong Kong Theatres Association Ltd; “Cherish Tonight” concerts by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra; and the “4th HK Comics Support Programme” by the Hong Kong Comics & Animation Federation.

     Hong Kong’s pop culture has drawn inspiration particularly from humour, a constant trendsetter that has left a deep footprint on many aspects of the city’s rich and colourful pop cultural landscape. The PCF 2025, with more than 20 programmes, will not only delight audiences with exciting performances and works but will also offer an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”. By participating in these activities, audiences will be able to discover their own happiness.

     For more details, please visit the website: www.pcf.gov.hkIssued at HKT 20:18

NNNN

CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Taking Measures Against Misuse of Personal Data

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 28 MAR 2025 6:43PM by PIB Delhi

Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC) are regulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). TRAI has issued Telecommunications Commercial Communications Consumers Preference Regulations, 2018 (TCCCPR-2018) which deals with UCC.

Under the TCCCPR-2018 regulations a number of directions have been issued for the implementation of its provisions. These directions inter-alia have provisions for registering preferences for commercial communication where a telecom subscriber can opt to block all commercial communications or can selectively block commercial communications as per preference categories.

Customers can register complaint against senders of UCC through Mobile App, sending SMS or calling on a specific number 1909.

The Government of India has taken major initiatives like enactment of Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, setting up of Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre, releasing of National Cyber Security Policy 2013, appointing Chief Information Security Officer, thus ensuring security and privacy of personal information of users in India.

The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011 under the IT Act prescribes reasonable security practices and procedures to protect sensitive personal data of users.

Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (“DPDP Act”) provides the legal framework for processing of personal data, notice to be issued to data principal, consent of the data principal including withdrawal of such consent, rights of the data principal, obligations of the data fiduciaries, penalties for non-compliance, etc.

The DPDP Act provides legal framework for Data Fiduciaries to notify breaches and ensure effective observance of the provisions Act by implementing appropriate technical and organizational measures.

Further, the DPDP Act establishes a robust framework of accountability mechanisms to ensure the lawful processing of digital personal data with Data Protection Board of India as an independent adjudicatory body empowered to investigate complaints, conduct inquiries, and impose penalties.

Ministry of Home Affairs has also established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre to deal with cyber-crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.

Public awareness campaigns, such as Cyber Security Awareness Month and Safer Internet Day, are organized to educate citizens about online safety, secure online transactions and digital services.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in Rajya Sabha today.

*******

Dharmendra TewariNavin Sreejith

(Release ID: 2116343) Visitor Counter : 300

Read this release in: Urdu

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ attends Beijing seminars

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam visited the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) today, following a tour of the Supreme People’s Court (SPC) yesterday.

Mr Lam attended a seminar of the National Prosecutors College under the SPP this morning and shared with the participants the work of the Department of Justice in prosecution and safeguarding public interests under the principle of “one country, two systems”.

He then had a working lunch with First Deputy Prosecutor General of the SPP Tong Jianming to learn more about the college’s initiatives in nurturing high-level and high-quality prosecutorial talent in the country.

In the afternoon, Mr Lam met SPP Prosecutor-General Ying Yong to exchange views on the strengthening of legal co-operation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and issues of mutual concern.

Yesterday, the Secretary for Justice attended an SPC foreign, Hong Kong and Macau-related seminar series, sharing with the participants the characteristics of Hong Kong’s common law system under the “one country, two systems” principle and ways to leverage the advantages of its common law system in contributing to the country’s high-quality development.

At a meeting with SPC Vice-president Mao Zhonghua, issues including promoting the nurturing of the country’s foreign-related legal talent were discussed.

Mr Lam will return to Hong Kong after a meeting with SPC President Zhang Jun tomorrow.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pop culture festival to open in April

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The opening programme of the Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival 2025, Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991), will be held at the Cultural Centre Grand Theatre on April 4.

Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin will reimagine beloved songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements, while pop singer Alfred Hui, the a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey Eric So will perform together with a live band.

Following the performance, there will be a screening of The Banquet, a comedy produced to raise disaster relief funds for flood relief, directed by Tsui Hark, Clifton Ko, Cheung Tung Joe and Alfred Cheung.

Another highlight of the festival is an outdoor music carnival ImagineLand 2025 to be held on April 5 and 6 at the Cultural Centre Piazza, the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars with free admission.

The two-day carnival features both daytime and evening programmes. “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, whereas film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night.

The “Go Beyond Concert” will showcase three stages featuring over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, the US, Australia, France, the UK and Ukraine.

Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Chu Wan-pin and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.

“Comics Fun Experience Gallery” will display Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras to highlight the creativity of local artists.

“Funarts Corner” will offer workshops on art, music and crafts for public participation.

In the evenings, “Movie Under the Stars” will screen local comedies Table For Six and Forbidden City Cop on April 5 and 6 respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.

The Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival is being held for the third year with “More Than Joy” as its theme and over 20 programmes will offer audiences an insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent website and social media accounts related to Dah Sing Bank, Limited

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Dah Sing Bank, Limited relating to a fraudulent website and social media accounts, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or social media accounts concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Stolen motor vehicles and pursuit – Alice Springs

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested four youths in relation to property and vehicle offences in Alice Springs early this morning.

Around 1:25am, police received reports of an unlawful entry at a residence on De Havilland Drive, Araluen. Two sets of keys were stolen from the location and used to steal a Toyota Prado and a Toyota C-HR.

A short time later, police sighted the stolen Prado driving dangerously through Amoonguna Community and initiated a pursuit.

During the pursuit, the Prado rammed the police unit on two occasions and the pursuit was terminated for safety reasons.

The officers inside the vehicle were not injured.

Later, a second police vehicle was stationary when the Prado drove at them head-on, ramming the front of the vehicle and then again at the rear. Members subsequently withdrew from the area.

Both officers inside the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries. While the vehicle was significantly damaged, the officers did not require medical treatment.

Strike Force Viper attended and initiated a third pursuit with the Prado, with the offenders abandoning the vehicle and attempting to flee the scene on foot.

The driver of the vehicle, aged 13, and the three passengers, aged 13, 11 and 11, were arrested without further incident with the assistance of the Dog Operations Unit.

CCTV operators later observed a 14-year-old male exit the second stolen vehicle in the Alice Springs CBD. He was subsequently arrested and found to be in possession of an edged weapon.

The second stolen vehicle was located abandoned in East Side a short time later.

Investigations are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference P25085673. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Armed with offensive weapon – Alice Springs

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 53-year-old male for being armed with an offensive weapon in Alice Springs yesterday.

Around 12:15pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report of a male armed with an edged weapon in the Alice Springs CBD.

The offender had allegedly attended a non-government organisation on Leichhardt Terrace earlier in the day and subsequently returned agitated and armed. Staff locked the doors before he could enter and called police.

The offender allegedly kicked and banged on the doors multiple times, but did not gain entry, and fled prior to police arrival.

Multiple police units responded and located the offender on an electric bike heading west on Larapinta Drive. He was arrested without incident and the edged weapon was seized.

The 53-year-old was later charged to appear court at a later date.

Police urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to contact police on 131 444. In an emergency call 000. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

MIL OSI News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Aggravated assault – Casuarina

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two female youths in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred in Casuarina yesterday afternoon.

Around 2:40pm, police received reports of a disturbance in the outdoor food court of a shopping centre on Trower Road, involving a group of five female youths. Weapons were allegedly involved in the altercation.

It is alleged a 15-year-old female victim was struck multiple times to the head with a blunt weapon before a member of the public intervened and removed the weapon.

The alleged offender then continued to punch the victim before security officers removed the offenders from the area.

St John Ambulance attended and conveyed the victim to Royal Darwin Hospital.

Police later located and arrested two females, aged 13 and 15.

During the arrests, police received reports of a second incident occurring at the nearby bus exchange on Bradshaw Terrace.

CCTV footage showed a 14-year-old female victim was allegedly assaulted with an edged weapon, sustaining multiple wounds to the back of the neck and head by an unknown female offender.

The offender fled before police arrived.

St John Ambulance conveyed the second victim to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The third offender remains outstanding, and investigations into both incidents are ongoing.

Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference number P25084989. Anonymous reports can also be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Queen Mary Hospital appeals to public for missing patient

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

The spokesperson for Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) made the following appeal today (March 29) regarding a patient leaving the ward without notifying hospital staff:

A 47-year-old male patient in a Cardiothoracic Surgery ward of QMH was found leaving the ward without prior notification at around 3.50pm. Security guards were immediately deployed to search for the patient within the hospital compound and the vicinity but in vain. The hospital is very concerned about the incident and has immediately informed the patient’s family and reported to the Police for assistance.

The patient is about 1.82 metres tall, with a tall and medium body build and short black hair. He was wearing patient clothes, a grey jacket and a pair of rimless glasses when leaving the ward.

The hospital appeals to the public to contact Western Police Station at 3661 1618 if they know the whereabouts of the patient.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India organizes ‘Workshop on e-Jagriti platform’ at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Sarangpur, Chandigarh

Source: Government of India

Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India organizes ‘Workshop on e-Jagriti platform’ at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Sarangpur, Chandigarh

Representatives from State and District Consumer Commissions and Bar Associations of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana & Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh and Ladakh participates

E-Jagriti Portal Empowers Stakeholders with Tools for Efficient Consumer Dispute Resolution

Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

The Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, in association with State Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission, UT of Chandigarh organized a ‘Workshop on e-Jagriti platform’, a hands-on workshop on the e-Jagriti portal, aimed at providing in-depth training to key stakeholders at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Sarangpur, Chandigarh today.

Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs in his keynote address stated that by introducing E-Jagriti, the Department of Consumer Affairs has taken a groundbreaking step toward a fully digital, accessible, and efficient consumer grievance redressal mechanism. This initiative reduces human intervention, overcomes geographical barriers, and strengthens consumer protection in India.

Shri Anupam Mishra, Joint Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs in his address stated that Department of Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), developed E-Jagriti, an integrated digital system combining e-Daakhil, Confonet, and OCMS into a single, streamlined platform simplifying access for consumers, commission officials, judges, advocates, industry experts, and mediators. He thanked the Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission, UT of Chandigarh and Director, NMIMS for smooth organization of the workshop.

Justice Raj Shekhar Attri, President, State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, UT (Chandigarh) said, that the technology has brought a sea change in efficiency and productivity. Using it for speedy disposal of cases will help serve the consumers and timely settlement of their cases. He also appreciated that GoI initiative i.e. e-Jagriti in utilizing new technology like video conferencing, AI tools to facilitate speedy disposal of consumer cases and making it accessible in remote locations. EJagriti will streamline the procedure and new tools like AI, Data Analytics will help judges in providing insights and legal precedents to make it more efficient and transparent.

Shri Shravan Kumar Nune, Member, District Consumer Commission, Leh expressed his views about the significance and potential of e-Daakhil platform (now E-Jagriti) in remote locations like Ladakh for the benefit of consumers. He observed that on the day when e-daakhil was launched in Leh, a case was registered on the portal. This highlights the important role technology can play to address the concerns of consumers in remote and hilly areas.

Ms. Monika Thatai, Advocate, Chandigarh HC, appreciated the features of EJagriti platform and the capacity building initiative of GoI. She representing the Bar Association gave various useful suggestions which would further enhance the ease of use of e-Jagriti portal.

Shri. G. Mayil Muthu Kumaran, Deputy Director General, National Informatics Centre, New Delhi during the workshop presented a presentation on the e-jagriti, enlightening the participants on how to efficiently onboard users onto the platform, file consumer complaints and grievances, and navigate the role-based access module, which defines specific functionalities for different stakeholders. The presentation also covered vital aspects such as scrutinizing and assisting in the processing of cases, generating and managing causelists, and managing virtual courtroom hearings through the platform.

The Members of the State Consumer Commissions like the Maheep Gupta, Jammu & Kashmir State Consumer Commissions along with the Hon’ble Padma Pandey, Hon’ble Rajesh K. Arya, and Preetinder Singh, Chandigarh State Consumer Commission attended the workshop. Also, President Sh. Pawanjit Singh, President, Chandigarh District Consumer Commission-I and Sh. Amrinder Singh, President of Chandigarh District Consumer Commission-II along with Members of the Chandigarh District Consumer Commission I & II attended the workshop. Sh Shravan Kumar Nune, Member, District Consumer Commission, Leh attended the workshop. The stakeholders/ participants were equipped with practical knowledge and skills to efficiently navigate and utilize various features of the E-Jagriti portal. Other stakeholders like voluntary consumer organizations and advocates also attended the workshop.

During the workshop, the stakeholders were divided into two groups and provided with the computer systems for hands-on training on various key functionalities of the e-jagriti platform. Participants were given their own login ID and were walked through each feature of the portal with live demonstrations and interactive sessions by the NIC experts team. Attendees were guided on uploading daily orders and judgments for efficient document management and were introduced to the specialized Judges module, aimed at supporting smooth adjudication of cases. The objective was to ensure that all participants were well-versed with the E-Jagriti portal’s features to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for consumers and all stakeholders involved in the grievance redressal mechanism.

The e-Jagriti platform has case filing, online fee payment, case monitoring modules for seamless disposal of cases by all the Commissions, has Smart search facility on archived consumer complaints / cases / judgements using AI technology for metadata and keyword creation, and Voice-to-text conversion of judgements, case history and other details using AI / ML technology. The portal is integrated with a Virtual court facility for a convenient and accessible resolution of consumer complaints, reducing the time of disposal, multiple hearings and physical court appearances bringing effective and fast decisions & disposals in all Consumer Commissions.

Shri. Sunil Kumar Mishra, Deputy Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs in his vote of thanks extended a heartfelt gratitude to Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Sarangpur, Chandigarh, for their generous support in hosting the ‘Workshop on e-Jagriti Platform’. The provision of their state-of-the-art hall and computer systems played an instrumental role in ensuring the success of the workshop.

The Department of Consumer Affairs is committed to enhancing consumer protection and facilitating access to justice. This workshop is the first of a series of workshops that will be conducted in all the states under the broader initiative to bring technology into the consumer dispute resolution process, ensuring that consumers across the nation can resolve grievances in a faster and more efficient manner.

Inaugural programme of the Capacity Building Workshop

****

Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

(Release ID: 2116605) Visitor Counter : 396

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurates National Green Tribunal’s National Conference on Environment – 2025, in New Delhi

Source: Government of India

President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurates National Green Tribunal’s National Conference on Environment – 2025, in New Delhi

Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasizes India’s commitment to Climate Action and Sustainable Development

Two-Day Event to deliberate on Critical Environmental Issues, Policy Gaps and Promote Sustainable Management

Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 6:56PM by PIB Delhi

The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a two-day National Conference on ‘Environment – 2025’ in New Delhi today. The inaugural session was graced by Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath, Judge, Supreme Court of India, Shri R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India, in the presence of Hon’ble Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson of National Green Tribunal (NGT).

The two-day conference is being organised by the National Green Tribunal at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This conference, aims at deliberating on critical environmental issues and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, witnessed the participation of prominent dignitaries, legal experts, environmentalists, and policymakers.

Addressing the inaugural session, Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, emphasised the importance of balancing development with environmental protection, focussing on our responsibility to ensure progress while preventing destruction. She noted that
it is our moral responsibility to provide a legacy of a clean environment to the coming generations. (Detailed Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2116543)

Addressing the august gathering, Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, quoted the mantra ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’, and emphasized that environmental protection is in Indian ethos. It extends to encompass flora, fauna, mountains, rivers, and all components of the environment, he stated.

Shri Yadav stated that India reserves Her right to grow responsibly based on our national circumstances. As a show of our commitment to climate action, India has fulfilled its Paris Agreement commitments on green energy nine years ahead of the 2030 target. He further emphasized that the climate anxiety which has gripped the world cannot force India to give up its right to ensure food, water, energy, and a quality to its 140-crore people. India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is confidently striking a balance between challenges and opportunities.

Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath, Judge, Supreme Court of India emphasized that when we unite, we benefit a wide range of causes. Furthermore, he highlighted that the environment is not an external entity, but intrinsically connected to our health and culture.

Shri R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India emphasised that human behaviour should go beyond mere profit-making, aiming instead to ensure a better quality of life for future generations.

In his welcome address, Hon’ble Justice Prakash Shrivastava, the Chairperson of NGT, highlighted that what makes this conference truly exceptional is its inclusivity, bringing together jurists, experts, faculty, and passionate students from various institutions, all united by a common vision of sustainability and environmental stewardship. He emphasized that our efforts to safeguard the environment are not only a responsibility but also a vital safeguard for our future.

Following the inaugural session, two technical sessions took place. The first, on Air Quality Monitoring and Management, was chaired by Hon’ble Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Judge, Supreme Court of India. It was noted that true progress is not measured solely in economic terms, but by our ability to balance development with environmental sustainability and focused on the growing issue of air pollution. Experts including Dr. Randeep Guleria, Chairman, Institute of Internal Medicine, Medanta, Dr. Dilip Ganguly, IIT Delhi, Sh. Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, MoEF&CC, and Hon’ble Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana, NGT, Chennai, deliberated on the causes, regulatory frameworks, and possible solutions to mitigate air pollution.

The second technical session on Water Quality Management and River Rejuvenation was presided over by Hon’ble Justice Pratibha M. Singh, Judge, Delhi High Court. It discussed the issue of water pollution, highlighting Switzerland’s European Rhine River restoration model and the case of Namibia, while comparing the situation in India. She also provided practical solutions, including community collaboration, compliance and transparency mechanisms, and the adoption of scientific innovations and explored the pressing concerns of water pollution, over-extraction of groundwater, and conservation strategies. Panelists Dr. M.K. Goel, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Dr. Rajiv Kumar Mittal, DG (National Mission for Clean Ganga), and Hon’ble Justice B. Amit Sthalekar, NGT, Kolkata, discussed legislative measures, government initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission, and community-driven solutions for sustainable water management. The session was moderated by Prof. A.K. Gosain, Former Professor, IIT Delhi.

The first day of the conference concluded with thought-provoking discussions, setting the stage for further deliberations tomorrow. The second day of the conference will feature third technical session on Forest Conservation and Biodiversity Protection and fourth technical session will include the reflections on the key takeaways from first three technical sessions.

*****

VM/GS

(Release ID: 2116631) Visitor Counter : 529

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Commitment to Women’s Safety
Source: Government of India

India’s Commitment to Women’s Safety

Initiatives leading towards a big change

Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 2:11PM by PIB Delhi

Summary:
- India has implemented legal reforms, taken financial initiatives (Nirbhaya Fund), and launched Women helpline (181) to enhance women’s security.
- Multipronged approach to promote women’s rights, legal actions against sexual offenses, domestic violence, dowry, child marriage, workplace harassment, and human trafficking to ensure safety and security of women.
- One Stop Centres (OSCs), Women Helpline 181, Emergency Response Support System (112), SHe-Box, and Women Help Desks provide legal, medical, and psychological assistance to women.
- Domestic violence and Gender Based Violence impact mental health; Project Stree Manoraksha by NIMHANS provides trauma-informed care at OSCs.
Introduction

Women are making a place for themselves in the world. Now, they are not confined to the four walls of a home but are at the forefront of every sector of society, proving their strength, talent, and leadership in fields ranging from business and politics to science and sports. However, true empowerment can only be achieved when women feel safe and secure in every aspect of life. The Government of India has taken remarkable strides to ensure the safety and security of women across the nation. Through legislative reforms, dedicated helplines, and financial support, a multi-faceted approach is being implemented to create a safer environment for women.

Nirbhaya Fund

Ministry of Women and Child Development is actively working towards safety and security of women at every place. Looking at the rising cases of crimes against women in past, the Ministry has established a special fund known as Nirbhaya Fund for financing safety projects across country.

Under the fund, a total amount of Rs 7712.85 crore has been allocated up to the financial year 2024-25, with Rs 5846.08 crore utilised which is nearly 76% of the total allocation. This fund supports various projects and schemes such as One Stop Centres (OSCs), Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), Women Helpline (WHL-181), Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs), Women Help Desks (WHDs), Cyber Forensic cum Training Labs, Safe City Projects, Rail and Road Transport Safety Initiatives, and the Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) to enhance women’s safety and security.

Government Initiatives for Women Safety

One Stop Centres (OSCs): Established under the Nirbhaya Fund, OSCs provide integrated support to women affected by violence. These centres offer medical assistance, legal aid, psychological counselling, and temporary shelter, all under one roof, facilitating a coordinated response to various forms of violence against women. According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development statistics, there are currently 812 operational OSCs across the country. and they have assisted over 10.80 lakh women since inception (01.04.2015) till 31^st January 2025.

24×7 Women Helpline (181): Women Helpline 181 provides 24/7 emergency and support services for women facing violence in both public and private spaces. Launched on December 3, 2018, under the Universalization of Women Helpline Scheme, it offers referrals to police, hospitals, legal aid, and One Stop Centres (OSC) while also informing women about government schemes. Funded under the Nirbhaya Fund, it ensures continuous support until a survivor’s issue is resolved. Sakhi Dashboard updates and regular feedback collection help track cases effectively.

Emergency Response Support System (ERSS – 112): The Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) is an integrated emergency service launched by the Government of India with a single emergency number – 112 to handle all types of emergencies. Citizens can seek help through calls, SMS, email, SOS signals, or the ERSS web portal. The ‘112 India’ mobile app enables users to send alert messages with location data and make emergency calls for quick assistance. Each State/UT capital has a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) to coordinate rescue efforts with police, fire, and health services. ERSS also provides real-time tracking of emergency vehicles to ensure timely support. This system unifies all existing emergency numbers, including 100 (Police), 101 (Fire), 108 (Ambulance), and 181 (Women & Child Care), under 112 for seamless response.

SHe-Box Portal: Launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Sexual Harassment Electronic Box (SHe-Box) is an initiative by the Government of India to provide a single-window platform for women to register workplace sexual harassment complaints. It is accessible to all women, regardless of their work sector (organized/unorganized, public/private).

Once a complaint is filed on, SHe-Box, it is automatically forwarded to the appropriate authority for necessary action. This platform ensures swift redressal and accountability for workplace harassment cases.

Women Help Desks (WHDs) in Police Stations: Supported by the Nirbhaya Fund, WHDs are established in police stations to make law enforcement more accessible and responsive to women’s issues. To ensure that the Police Stations are more women friendly and approachable, as they would be the first and single point of contact for any woman walking into a police station, 14,658 Women Help Desks (WHDs) have been set up, of which 13,743 are headed by women police officers.

Psychosocial Support & Awareness

Violence, especially Domestic Violence (DV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), can lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorders, and suicide risk. In India, women can seek help through government initiatives for physical and sexual violence but mental and psychological help is equally important. There is a need for these services to be sensitive to the psychological needs of women facing violence and to be able to provide culturally informed and effective interventions that are context-specific.

Project Stree Manoraksha, launched by NIMHANS and supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, aims to strengthen trauma-informed mental health care in One Stop Centres (OSCs). It focuses on training counsellors and staff, including caseworkers, administrators, paralegal and paramedical staff, and security personnel. This initiative ensures that women facing gender-based violence receive empathetic, evidence-based mental health care and counselling when they seek help at OSCs.

Legal Provisions to Safeguard Women Security

To address crimes against women, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) regularly compiles data, enabling a data-driven focused approach to tackling safety concerns. Additionally, the government has implemented a number of crucial laws to safeguard women’s physical and mental security.

These laws include:

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023: It introduced stringent penalties for sexual offenses, including the death penalty for the rape of girls below 18 years of age. It also increased minimum sentences for rape and expanded the definition of sexual offenses to ensure more comprehensive protection for women and children. Since October 2019, the Central Government has been running a centrally sponsored scheme to set up Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO Courts. These courts aim to quickly handle pending cases related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005: In India, domestic violence is governed by the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005. Section 3 defines it as any act that harms a woman’s physical or mental health or endangers her safety, including harassment for unlawful demands. The Act applies to women in shared households related by blood, marriage, adoption, or marriage-like relationships.

The NFHS-5 (2019-2021) report shows spousal violence among married women (18-49 years) declined from 31.2% (2015-16) to 29.3%.

Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961: Dowry refers to any valuable items, such as cash, property, or jewellery, given by the bride’s or groom’s family as a condition of marriage. It is illegal under the Dowry Prohibition Act, which penalizes giving, taking, or demanding dowry. Harassment related to dowry is also punishable under laws like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. If a woman dies under unnatural circumstances within seven years of marriage due to dowry harassment, it is considered dowry death, with severe legal consequences. Authorities such as Dowry Prohibition Officers, police, and NGOs handle complaints, and awareness programs aim to discourage dowry practices.

Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956: This Act focuses on preventing human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of individuals for commercial purposes. It provides for the rescue and rehabilitation of victims and prescribes penalties for those involved in trafficking offenses, aiming to combat organized exploitation.

Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA) was enacted to prevent child marriages and punish those involved. Section 16 empowers State Governments to appoint Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) to enforce the Act. CMPOs work to prevent child marriages, collect evidence for prosecution, counsel communities, raise awareness, and sensitize the public on its harmful effects. These officers’ function under State Governments and UT Administrations, which are responsible for implementing the Act.

Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 applies to all women, regardless of age, job type, or work sector. It mandates employers to create an Internal Committee (IC) in workplaces with over 10 employees, while the Appropriate Government sets up Local Committees (LCs) for smaller organizations or cases against employers. The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) oversees implementation and awareness. To centralize complaint data, MWCD launched SHe-Box, a portal for reporting and tracking cases. The portal went live on October 19, 2024, receiving 9 complaints so far. Inquiries under the Act must be completed within 90 days.

Conclusion

The Government of India has taken significant steps to enhance women’s safety and security through legal measures, financial allocations, and support services. While these efforts provide physical and legal protection, a greater focus on psychological well-being is necessary. Initiatives like Project Stree Manoraksha aim to fill this gap by offering trauma-informed mental health care. A multi-pronged approach integrating law enforcement, helplines, rehabilitation, and mental health support is crucial for creating a safer and more empowering environment for women.

References:

Click here to download PDF

*******

Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Priya Nagar

(Release ID: 2116557) Visitor Counter : 754

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arbitration and mediation mechanisms crucial for India’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal

Source: Government of India

Arbitration and mediation mechanisms crucial for India’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal

Legal reforms and a robust arbitration framework will boost investor confidence and economic growth: Shri Goyal

Posted On: 29 MAR 2025 1:23PM by PIB Delhi

Arbitration and mediation mechanisms are crucial for India’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub, stated Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, while addressing the Special Plenary Session at the United International Avocat Conference in Delhi today. In his speech, he underscored the importance of a strong legal and arbitration framework in supporting India’s rapid economic growth and its ambition to become a global manufacturing hub.

Shri Goyal noted that arbitration and mediation play a pivotal role in reducing judicial delays and ensuring a stable and transparent business environment. He emphasized the need for confidence in arbitration mechanisms and acknowledged concerns regarding the influence of large corporations and international biases. The Minister urged stakeholders to strengthen arbitration practices in India to make them more efficient and impartial, thereby fostering a more investor-friendly climate.

Reflecting on India’s growth trajectory, Shri Goyal highlighted the nation’s robust economic performance, stating that India is the fastest-growing major economy and is on track to becoming the fourth-largest global economy by 2025-26. He attributed this progress to significant policy reforms, including the simplification of business regulations and the decriminalization of over 180 legal provisions through the Jan Vishwas Act. The Minister emphasized that these reforms have built international trust in India as a reliable investment destination.

He explained that the Jan Vishwas was named with the intent of fostering mutual trust between the government and the people. The objective was to assure citizens that the government believes in them and does not seek to penalize minor mistakes with severe legal consequences. Instead, the focus is on simplifying processes and ensuring that errors can be rectified through reasonable measures rather than lengthy judicial scrutiny.

Shri Goyal also said that the government is now working on Jan Vishwas 2.0, aimed at further reducing legal complexities. “Incidentally, we are now moving towards Jan Vishwas 2.0. At least, businesses and individuals should be free of unnecessary tension and difficulties, worrying about every small action in their lives. If anyone has ideas, we welcome them. We are actively engaging with legal experts, but even now, we are open to suggestions on any law that can help make the lives of businesses and citizens easier,” he added.

Discussing India’s advantages as a global manufacturing hub, Shri Goyal pointed out key factors such as a young workforce, technological advancements, and a vast domestic market that enhances manufacturing competitiveness. The Minister also highlighted India’s digital transformation, with extensive 5G connectivity improving ease of business operations across the country.

Addressing ongoing legal reforms, Shri Goyal stressed the need for modernizing India’s judicial and arbitration systems to align with global best practices. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to enhance arbitration efficiency through technology integration and internationally benchmarked laws. The Minister quoted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, stating, “Justice is at the root of independent self-governance, and without justice, even the existence of a nation is not possible.”

Shri Goyal concluded by encouraging the legal fraternity to play a key role in drafting clear, robust, and globally competitive legal frameworks that support India’s aspirations as a global economic powerhouse. He emphasized that a strong legal infrastructure will not only facilitate economic growth but also reinforce India’s reputation as a trusted partner in the global trade ecosystem.

***

Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

(Release ID: 2116545) Visitor Counter : 629

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing woman in Tseung Kwan O located

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     A woman who went missing in Tseung Kwan O has been located.

     Tung Kit-yu, aged 22, went missing after she left her residence on Kai King Road on March 23 night. Her family made a report to Police on March 25.

     The woman was located at Tseung Kwan O Station last night (March 28). She sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

March 30, 2025