Elimination of Violence Against Women

International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women - Key Highlights

Date: November 25, observed globally, marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Framework and Initiatives in India

1. National Commission for Women (NCW):

   • Established in January 1992.
   • Monitors constitutional/legal safeguards for women, recommends law amendments, and processes complaints.

2. Key Legal Provisions:

   • Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA):
     • Defines domestic violence, protecting women in domestic relationships.
     • Addresses physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, and economic abuse.
   • Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013:
     • Mandates Internal Committees in workplaces with over 10 employees.
     • Launched SHe-Box for centralized reporting of workplace harassment.

3. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023:

   • Effective from July 1, 2024; replaces IPC.
   • Imposes stringent penalties for sexual offenses, including life imprisonment for rape of minors.

Government Schemes for Women

1. Mission Shakti:

   • Integrated scheme addressing safety (Sambal) and empowerment (Samarthya) for women.
   • Promotes coordination among ministries to empower women throughout their life cycles.

2. Swadhar Greh Scheme:

   • Provides shelter, food, clothing, and legal aid for women in distress (updated as of April 1, 2016).

3. One Stop Centres (OSC):

   • Established April 1, 2015; offers medical aid, legal aid, and counselling services for women facing violence.

4. Digital Shakti Campaign:

   • Aims to digitally empower women through skill development and awareness to protect against online violence.

5. Universalisation of Women Helpline (WHL):

   • Launched on April 1, 2015, offering 24x7 support through a toll-free number (181).

Judicial and Technological Developments

1. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs):

   • Implemented under the Nirbhaya Fund to expedite trials related to rape and child sexual offenses.
   • 773 FTSCs operational by August 2025.

2. Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences (ITSSO):

   • Ensures real-time monitoring of police investigations of sexual offenses.

3. National Database on Sexual Offenders (NDSO):

   • Central registry aids law enforcement in tracking sexual offenders.

4. Crime Multi-Agency Centre (Cri-MAC):

   • Facilitates information sharing on inter-state and heinous crimes operative since March 12, 2020.

International Context

• The global theme for 2025 is “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls”; emphasizes addressing gender-based violence extending to online platforms.

Conclusion

India's efforts to combat violence against women encompass comprehensive legal reforms, governmental schemes, and technology-driven initiatives. The government remains committed to building a safer and more inclusive environment for women, reinforcing the need for accessible reporting and support mechanisms. Through these frameworks and initiatives, India is taking significant strides towards gender equality and women's empowerment.