Kerala Police launches ‘Speak Up’ initiative to combat domestic violence
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Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police has launched a dedicated task force, ‘Speak Up’, to tackle domestic violence and encourage women facing abuse to seek assistance without fear or social pressure.
The initiative, launched under the supervision of IPS officer Ajitha Begum following a State Home Department order, will provide survivors with legal assistance, counselling, safe accommodation and livelihood support to help them rebuild their lives.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said domestic violence can have severe physical and psychological consequences for women and stressed that financial or family pressures should not prevent survivors from seeking justice.
According to the Minister, 92 women have died in Kerala over the past seven years due to domestic violence, while many others continue to remain silent because of fear. The new programme will particularly focus on reaching such women.
The task force will guide survivors through the complaint process, explain available legal remedies and provide information on the steps that follow the registration of a complaint. Police officials will adopt a less intimidating approach, allowing women to discuss their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
The initiative will also prioritise survivors’ privacy. Once information about abuse is received, officers will approach the survivor in civilian clothes, while a designated officer will be assigned to each case. The officer will review the case every week, including the progress of the investigation, counselling and livelihood assistance.
A central command centre will coordinate the initiative. Complaints will be accepted through a digital helpline, WhatsApp and a dedicated mobile application, with survivors’ personal information kept confidential.
The police will also collaborate with local self-government institutions to arrange shelter facilities and vocational training.
Ajitha Begum said the department was considering strict measures against people convicted in domestic violence cases, including possible denial of police clearance certificates and passports.
The initiative adds to Kerala’s history of women-focused policing. The state introduced the country’s first women police system in 1973.
With IANS inputs