Vigilant Groups formation progressing Updated On 2018-01-03
The formation of Vigilant groups, which envisages to defend the crimes and atrocities against women are progressing in all districts. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kazargode districts had already completed vigilant group formation. 909 & 1321 Vigilant groups were formed in Pathanamthitta and Kottayam respectively. 1753 were formed in Thrissur, 1502 in Kozhikode and 777 vigilant groups were formed in Kazargode district. Its planned to finish the formation in the rest of the districts by next month itself.15,000 ward level vigilant groups have been formed so far.
The aim of the initiative is not only to create safe neighborhoods but also to ensure the freedom of movement of women across the state and protect their rights, thereby creating better domestic and social conditions for them.The ward level vigilant groups will consist of five to ten resident members who would act as the team that would take measures against the atrocities against women. They will help identify victims and also provide them with legal and other assistance.
Monthly awareness programmes will be conducted under the leadership of community councilors. If needed, service of Gender Help Desk will also be provided. Vigilant groups will consist of ADS, CDS members, committee of Anganwadi mothers, Balasabha volunteers, elected members, NGOs, social activists and representatives from cultural arena etc. The support of women at a local level will be significant and it could play a critical role in helping the wheels of justice to turn faster and more efficiently.