A National Consultative Meeting was convened in an effort to address the pervasive issue of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in India, bringing together key stakeholders, policymakers, activists, and experts from various fields. The meeting’s goal was to discuss the multifaceted aspects of VAWG, evaluate existing strategies, and chart a course forward to create a safer and more equitable society for women and girls.

Violence against women and girls is a pervasive issue in India, spanning socioeconomic, cultural, and regional lines. Despite advances in several areas, the prevalence of domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, and other forms of gender-based violence remains alarmingly high. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports consistently highlight the unpleasant reality, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive and long-term efforts to combat this societal scourge.

The National Consultative Meeting produced a set of recommendations and action points to guide future efforts in India to combat VAWG. These included legal reforms emphasizing accelerated processes and increased penalties, preventive education through comprehensive sex education, community mobilization through support network establishment, technology integration for reporting and counseling, and capacity building for law enforcement and support service providers. The recommendations reflected a comprehensive approach that recognized the complexities of gender-based violence.

Despite the positive results, challenges were identified. Deeply ingrained cultural norms, patriarchal structures, and lengthy legal proceedings all pose significant challenges. Overcoming these challenges will necessitate ongoing efforts at multiple levels. Policymakers must prioritize the implementation of legal reforms and preventive measures, while community engagement and awareness programs must challenge entrenched beliefs. The commitment and perseverance with which the recommendations are translated into concrete actions will determine the success of these efforts.

Finally, the National Consultative Meeting on Violence Against Women and Girls in India symbolizes a turning point in the country’s journey toward a safer, more equitable society. The findings and recommendations provide a road map for future actions, emphasizing the importance of individuals, communities, and institutions working together to eradicate VAWG. The true measure of success is the dedication and perseverance with which these recommendations are translated into concrete actions, ultimately changing the landscape for women and girls across India.