TNR News Network
Shimla
Women in Himachal Pradesh who are victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse can now register their complaints through WhatsApp, making access to justice quicker and more convenient. The State Women Commission has launched a dedicated WhatsApp number — 9459886600 — to allow women to directly share their grievances with the commission.
Announcing the initiative in Kullu, State Women Commission chairperson Vidya Negi said that over the past four months alone, around 50 women had personally reached out to the commission by phone to narrate their ordeal and seek justice. To further strengthen outreach and ensure timely support, the commission has now extended the facility to WhatsApp.
She said women could send their complaints directly on the WhatsApp number, eliminating the need to visit offices or file written petitions initially. The move is expected to benefit women in remote and rural areas who may find it difficult to approach authorities in person.
Hundreds of pending cases disposed of
Vidya Negi revealed that nearly 1,600 cases had been pending with the Women Commission since the previous BJP government and the current regime. In the past four months, the commission organised courts in different regions of the state and successfully resolved around 650 cases.
“The commission is making every effort to take cognisance of all pending matters at the earliest and ensure speedy disposal so that women waiting for justice get timely relief,” she said.
Wide range of complaints can be reported
The State Women Commission deals with complaints related to domestic violence, acid attacks, rape, molestation, murder and attempt to murder, stalking, honour killings, dowry harassment and dowry deaths, marital disputes, sexual harassment at the workplace, service-related issues and discrimination in employment.
In addition, women can also report cybercrime, online harassment, forced prostitution, human trafficking and other crimes against women through the commission.
With the introduction of WhatsApp-based complaints, the commission hoped more women would come forward and seek help without fear, marking a step towards more accessible and responsive support systems for women across Himachal Pradesh, said Vidya Negi.
