‘Enough of suffering, time to speak up’: Kerala Police launch ‘Speak Up’ task force against domestic violence, IG Ajeetha Begum in charge

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Police have formed a special task force named ‘Speak Up’ to prevent the increasing incidents of domestic violence in the state. IG Ajeetha Begum is in charge of the app. The state home department has issued an order in this regard.

The main objectives of ‘Speak Up’ are to prevent domestic violence, ensure legal help and counselling for survivors, and provide safe accommodation and support for livelihood. The initiative will also establish mechanisms through which women who are unable to file complaints due to circumstances arising from abuse can seek help. The task force will function under the supervision of senior police officers.

‘Speak Up’ will assist complainants with information on how to file a complaint, the legal assistance available to them, and how further proceedings will be carried out. It will provide a safe environment where complaints can be shared as comfortably as speaking to a sister or friend. The privacy of survivors will be given the highest priority.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the message of ‘Speak Up’ is ‘Enough of suffering; it is time to raise your voice.’ He described domestic violence as a silent killer that destroys women both mentally and physically. He added that the police would take strong measures to ensure that no woman is denied justice due to financial or family-related fears.

‘Speak Up’ chief Ajitha Beegum said the police would consider stringent measures against those convicted in domestic violence cases, including denying them police clearance certificates and passports.