Nov 25, 2025 | New Delhi

India is observing the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by putting a spotlight on its growing efforts to keep women safe — not just in public spaces, workplaces and homes, but also across the fast-changing digital world. The day, recognised every year on November 25, begins the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, which continues until December 10. This year’s international theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” highlights rising concerns about online threats such as cyberstalking, deepfakes, doxxing and targeted harassment.

India has built a wide legal and institutional framework to protect women from different forms of abuse. The National Commission for Women, established in 1992, plays a central role in monitoring women’s rights, advising on legal reforms and handling complaints through both offline and digital systems. It also runs a 24×7 helpline, connecting women with police, hospitals, legal aid and mental-health counsellors.

Major legal changes through the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, implemented in 2024, have introduced stronger punishment for crimes against women, including life imprisonment for the rape of minors. The law also makes it mandatory to record victim statements on audio and video to ensure transparency and sensitivity. Protection under the Domestic Violence Act covers physical, emotional, sexual and economic abuse, while workplace safety is strengthened through the POSH Act, which requires every organisation to create committees for handling complaints. For easier reporting, the government operates SHe-Box, where cases can be filed and tracked online.

Under Mission Shakti, the government works to provide both protection and empowerment. Support systems like Swadhar Greh offer shelter, legal help, medical care and skill-building for women facing crisis situations. One Stop Centres, established across districts, bring together all essential services — from police support to legal aid and counselling — under one roof. To improve psychological support, the Stree Manoraksha project trains workers to respond to trauma with care and sensitivity.

Digital safety is another major focus. The Digital Shakti campaign, run by the NCW, helps women and girls learn online safety skills, understand cybercrime and report digital threats effectively.

For women in distress, helplines like 181 and the universal emergency number 112 operate around the clock. These systems can coordinate with police, medical teams and fire services for fast responses. During the pandemic, an additional WhatsApp number helped women reach authorities quickly.

To ensure faster justice, Fast Track Special Courts handle serious crimes against women and children. Hundreds of these courts are operating across India, resolving lakhs of cases. Women Help Desks in police stations are also increasing, creating safer spaces for filing complaints and accessing support.

Technology is being used to improve monitoring and enforcement. Tools like ITSSO track investigation progress in sexual-offence cases, while the National Database on Sexual Offenders helps police identify repeat offenders. Cri-MAC allows quick sharing of information on serious crimes across states and agencies.

As India joins the global movement to end violence against women, especially in digital spaces, its growing mix of stronger laws, tech-based systems and survivor-focused services shows a clear commitment. The goal is to build a country where every woman and girl can live safely, confidently and equally — online and offline.

 India Marks Global Women’s Rights Day with Stronger Safety Measures and Digital Protection Efforts

India is observing Global Women’s Rights Day with a renewed focus on safety, dignity and equal opportunity for women. The day serves as a reminder that protecting women from violence is not just a policy goal but a national responsibility. From tougher laws to digital safety campaigns, India is steadily expanding efforts to ensure that every woman feels secure both in the real world and online.

With initiatives like Mission Shakti, One Stop Centres, Women Helplines, SHe-Box and stronger legal reforms under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the country is strengthening support systems for survivors of violence. Digital safety has become a major priority, with campaigns designed to help women recognise online threats, protect their data and report cybercrimes without fear.

Fast-track courts, women help desks, emergency response systems and rehabilitation centres add further layers of support, making it easier for women to seek justice and rebuild their lives. As India embraces the global fight against violence, the message is clear: every woman deserves safety, respect and the freedom to thrive.