Kerala Police Launches 'Speak Up' Initiative to Combat Domestic Violence

The initiative will operate under the supervision of IPS officer Ajitha Begum following an order issued by the State Home Department. It will provide survivors with legal assistance, counselling, safe accommodation and livelihood support to help them rebuild their lives.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala described domestic violence as a silent threat capable of causing lasting mental and physical harm to women. He said financial or family-related concerns should not prevent women from seeking justice.

“No woman should be denied justice because of economic or family-related fears,” Chennithala said.

According to the minister, 92 women have died in Kerala over the past seven years as a result of domestic violence, while many others continue to remain silent because of fear. The 'Speak Up' programme will specifically seek to reach women who have not reported abuse.

The initiative will help survivors understand the complaint process, explain the legal remedies available to them and guide them on the steps that follow after a complaint is registered.

Police officials will seek to make interactions less intimidating by encouraging women to share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. The task force will also adopt an approach that gives greater emphasis to privacy and survivor-sensitive policing.

When information about an alleged case of abuse is received, police personnel will contact the survivor in civilian clothes. A designated officer will be assigned to each case and will personally monitor its progress every week, including the status of the investigation, counselling and livelihood assistance.

A central command centre is also planned under the initiative. Complaints will be accepted through a digital helpline, WhatsApp, and a dedicated mobile application, with the police assuring that survivors' personal information will be kept confidential.

The police will also coordinate with local self-government institutions to help survivors access shelter homes and vocational training centres as they rebuild their lives independently.

Ajitha Begum said the police were also examining strict measures against people convicted in domestic violence cases. These could include restrictions on obtaining police clearance certificates and passports.

The 'Speak Up' initiative adds to Kerala's history of women-focused policing. The state introduced India's first women police system in 1973.