Violence Against Women
From Crisis to Courage:
Helping Women Reclaim Their Lives.
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Overview of Gender-Based Violence
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) refers to harmful acts directed at an individual based on their gender. It stems from deep-rooted inequalities, social norms, and discrimination that restrict women’s safety and dignity.
Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) includes physical, sexual, psychological, or economic acts of harm that cause or are likely to cause suffering — whether in homes, workplaces, or public spaces. It remains one of the most persistent human rights violations worldwide.
The Global and National Context
Globally, 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime (UN Women, 2023). In India, the situation remains alarming. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB, 2022) reported over 4.45 lakh cases of crimes against women — equivalent to 51 cases every hour. The national rate of crimes against women increased from 57 per lakh in 2020 to 67 per lakh in 2022, underscoring the scale and urgency of the issue.
Violence in West Bengal and Kolkata
In West Bengal, 29% of ever-married women have faced spousal violence (NFHS-5). In Kolkata’s urban slums, this figure is even higher — 59.3% — reflecting the heightened vulnerability of women from informal and low-income backgrounds.
Focus on Domestic Violence
Domestic violence remains the most pervasive form of gender-based violence. It involves patterns of control and coercion that may be physical, emotional, sexual, economic, or psychological in nature. Common Forms Include:
- Physical violence: hitting, slapping, or physical harm
- Emotional and psychological violence: humiliation, threats, isolation
- Sexual violence: non-consensual sexual acts or coercion
- Economic violence: denial of financial resources or control over income
Legal protection is provided under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, which ensures residence rights, protection orders, and maintenance for survivors. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 85 further criminalises cruelty by a husband or his relatives, reinforcing legal accountability.
Our Beginning: The Crisis Support Centre
Initially, cases of violence against women and girls were addressed by Prayaas on an ad hoc basis, as survivors approached us for support. However, as the number of incidents increased, the need for a structured and dedicated response became evident.
In 2021, the Crisis Support Centre was formally established — adopting a single-window approach with a 24×7 Helpline (98307 68761) to offer immediate, coordinated, and compassionate care to survivors of violence.
Our Approach
Our work is rooted in a survivor-centric approach — believing, respecting, helping them re-juvenate their self respect and standing beside every woman who seeks help. We ensure confidentiality, empathy, and dignity, empowering survivors to make informed choices and rebuild their lives with confidence.
What We Do
The Crisis Support Centre provides integrated services that respond to both immediate crises and long-term recovery needs:
- 24×7 Helpline: Immediate response and guidance for women in distress
- Psycho-social Counselling: Emotional and mental health support
- Escorting and Mediation: Escorting survivors to court and Police stations in need. Mediation via phone call/ In-person with family members or society to reduce violence.
- Legal Guidance & Referral: Access to legal aid and justice mechanisms
- Emergency Relief: Assistance with food, medicine, shelter, and financial aid
- Workplace Support: Addressing workplace harassment and problems faced by informal women workers, especially domestic workers
- Digital Safety Session: Organizing Digital safety workshop at Schools and Colleges to aware young girls from digital abuse and harassment including trolling, morphing etc.
- Forming survivor’s support group: Forming group with former members who have overcome from their initial trauma for Knowledge sharing, Career information sharing, Sisterhood and Bonding
- Mental Health Recreation: Survivors’ quarterly meet, Art workshop, Crisis Support Centre birthday celebration to restore their mental wellbeing, to overcome from trauma
- Rehabilitation & Empowerment: Linking survivors to vocational training, employment, and livelihood opportunities
Our Reach and Impact (till 2024-25)
- 6006 calls received through the 24×7 Helpline
- 230 women supported so far
- 30 women currently receiving active assistance, including 15 accessing legal support
- Services available across Kolkata, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, and twelve additional districts including Howrah, Hooghly, Purba Medinipur, Murshidabad, Malda, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar,
- 51% of cases referred by community groups, reflecting strong local trust and awareness
A Step Towards Hope
At Prayaas, we believe that no woman in distress should ever feel unheard or alone. Through the Crisis Support Centre, we walk hand in hand with survivors — ensuring safety, dignity, and the possibility of a new beginning.
Every call, every conversation, and every step forward brings us closer to a society where women and girls live free from violence — with hope, strength, and self-worth.
Need Help? We’re Here for You.
📞 24×7 Helpline: 98307 68761
Confidential | Free | Compassionate Support
Support Our Mission
Your contribution empowers marginalized women and helps build a just society free from violence and discrimination. Every rupee makes a difference.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Passionate individuals committed to empowering women and building a just society.
Make a Difference: Volunteer with Prayaas
Join Prayaas and be a part of meaningful social transformation. Your time, skills, and passion can uplift communities and empower women and girls across West Bengal.
Whether it’s assisting with programs, event planning, fundraising, or fieldwork, your contribution helps build a brighter, more equitable future. Explore the variety of volunteer opportunities available and find the perfect fit for you.
