Domestic abuse, cybercrime emerge as major threats in complaints by women

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya 

Domestic violence and cybercrime continue to haunt Sri Lankan women at alarming levels, new data from the 1938 Women’s Helpline shows, revealing that hundreds are reaching out for help each month amid rising patterns of abuse both at home and online. 
From November 2024 to October this year, the 1938 Women’s Helpline operated by the National Committee on Women (NCW) has received 2,182 complaints relating to violence and discrimination against women, with domestic violence and cybercrime emerging as the most alarming concerns. 
According to the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, domestic violence accounted for the highest number of cases, with 1,488 complaints recorded during the period. 
Cybercrime has also become a significant threat, with 234 complaints reported to the helpline. These incidents include online harassment, blackmail and social media-based abuse issues that have rapidly escalated alongside increased digital engagement. 
The helpline also received 243 miscellaneous complaints, 41 related to maintenance and divorce, 25 on sexual harassment, and seven complaints of rape. The highest monthly total, 244 complaints, was recorded in August this year. 
The Ministry, together with the NCW and support from government and non-governmental organisations, has begun strengthening the toll-free 1938 helpline, which operates 24 hours in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. 
In line with global efforts, the ministry said that they will launch its national programme for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. 
The campaign will run until December 10, International Human Rights Day, featuring islandwide activities to raise awareness, support survivors, and empower women to stand up for their rights.