Speaking at a public function at Dharbandora, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant directed citizens, particularly women facing domestic trouble or physical violence at home, to contact the 181 Women Helpline. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister remarked, “Even if your husband beats you, dial 181,” stating that the helpline is available for immediate contact in such circumstances.
The 181 helpline serves as a 24/7 universal contact service for women affected by violence, offering telephonic intervention, counseling, legal aid details, and referrals to local support authorities. The Chief Minister also noted that the helpline number can be dialed during sudden personal emergencies, accidents, or acute emotional distress situations. The dedicated 181 Women Helpline was officially rolled out in Goa on May 16, 2018, under the Directorate of Women and Child Development (DWCD) and operated through GVK EMRI. Alongside the 181 service, the Goa Police operate a dedicated women’s distress WhatsApp helpline at 7875756177, while direct emergency dispatches, including the Pink Force, remain connected through 112 and 100.
