(GIST OF YOJANA) COMBATING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: A MULTI-SECTORAL APPROACH

GIST OF YOJANA : COMBATING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: A MULTI-SECTORAL APPROACH

MARCH-2025

COMBATING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: A MULTI-SECTORAL APPROACH

Introduction

In spite of progressive legal mechanisms and policy measures, women continue to endure various types of abuse, such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, trafficking, honor killings, cyber violence, and workplace harassment. Tackling this issue necessitates a thorough, multi-dimensional approach that combines legal, social, educational, technological, and economic strategies. A united effort from policymakers, enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector is crucial for successfully addressing gender-based violence.

Fortifying the Legal and Institutional Framework

India possesses a strong legal framework to combat violence against women, with laws including:

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 – Offers immediate shelter and support to victims of domestic violence.
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 – Requires Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in workplaces to handle cases of sexual harassment.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 (Nirbhaya Act) – Enhances regulations on sexual offenses, including severe penalties for rape and acid attacks.
The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 – Makes the practice of dowry and related violence illegal.
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 – Delivers extensive protection to minors from sexual exploitation and abuse.

Challenges and Institutional Fortification

Setting up fast-track courts for the swift resolution of cases.
Boosting women's representation in law enforcement.
Training law enforcement officers and judiciary members in gender-sensitive case practices.
Expanding support services for victims, including shelters, legal counsel, and trauma therapy.
Strengthening collaboration among agencies to develop a more responsive legal framework.

Enhancing Community-Based Support Systems

Empowering community members to tackle violence against women is vital for lasting change.

Key Initiatives:

One Stop Centre Scheme and Women Helpline (181) enhance access to support for victims.
Grassroots women’s collectives and self-help groups (SHGs) offer financial and emotional backing.
Community-based actions like neighborhood watch initiatives and gender-aware urban planning improve safety.
Engaging religious and community leaders to speak out against damaging practices like child marriage.

The Role of Education in Transforming Mindsets

Education acts as a significant agent for dismantling patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender-based violence.

Incorporating gender awareness into school curricula from an early age.
Training educators to cultivate inclusive learning atmospheres.
Involving boys and young men in discussions about equality.
Providing self-defense training to enhance women’s confidence and security.
Collaborating with media to counter misogynistic imagery and promote positive gender representations.
Educating parents to nurture gender-equal environments at home.

Utilizing Technology for Women’s Safety

Technology can play a pivotal role in fighting violence against women through:

Mobile apps such as Nirbhaya App, SHEROES, and Himmat Plus for immediate aid.
AI-based safety tools and cyber awareness campaigns.
Online complaint resolution systems to address cyber crimes.
Wearable safety gadgets that notify law enforcement during emergencies.
AI-focused predictive policing to pinpoint high-risk regions.

Economic Empowerment as Protection Against Violence
Financial autonomy serves as a crucial deterrent to gender-based violence.

Skill India improves job prospects.
Mudra Yojana and Stand-Up India provide fiscal assistance for women business owners.
‘Lakhpati Didi’ Scheme endeavors to empower 2 crore women from SHGs.
Promoting female participation in STEM fields and the digital economy.
Ensuring equal pay and harassment-free work environments.