From November 2024 to October 2025, a total of 2,182 complaints related to violence against women were reported through the 1938 toll-free Women’s Helpline, operated by the National Committee on Women (NCW) under the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs.
According to official data, domestic violence accounted for the highest number of complaints, with 1,488 cases recorded during the period. The helpline also received 234 complaints related to cybercrime, while seven cases of rape were reported.
The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, together with the NCW and supported by both governmental and non-governmental organizations, has taken steps to strengthen and promote the 1938 hotline, which operates 24 hours a day in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Officials say the goal is to encourage more survivors to report incidents, raise public awareness, and contribute to the broader national effort to eliminate Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Meanwhile, plans are underway to implement the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence at the national level, beginning on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The campaign will run until December 10, which marks International Human Rights Day.
Throughout the 16 days, various programs and awareness initiatives will be conducted to educate the public, empower women, and encourage communities to stand up against all forms of gender-based violence.
