How Will 'Akka Force' Tackle Rape and Child Marriages Across Karnataka?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Women and Child Welfare Minister, Laxmi Hebbalkar, has announced the statewide implementation of 'Akka Force' to combat pressing issues like rape, child marriages, and pregnancies. This initiative aims to protect vulnerable women and girls, with significant support from local authorities and community members.
Key Takeaways
- 'Akka Force' aims to prevent rape, child marriages, and child pregnancies.
- Implementation begins on August 15 in select districts.
- Program includes women police and NCC cadets.
- Government has formed a committee to combat child marriages.
- 24-hour helpline '1098' established for child welfare.
Bengaluru, Aug 13 (NationPress) Karnataka Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar announced on Wednesday that the 'Akka Force' will be rolled out throughout the state to tackle issues affecting women, especially to curb rape, child pregnancies, and child marriages.
The term Akka means elder sister in Kannada.
Hebbalkar made this announcement in the Legislative Assembly in response to a query from JD(S) floor leader, MLA C.B. Suresh Babu, regarding the alarming rise in child pregnancies, child marriages, and rapes in Karnataka.
"The 'Akka Force' has been effective in Bidar district and will now be implemented across the entire state. It will begin as a pilot program starting August 15 in Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi districts through the department, with plans for statewide expansion," Hebbalkar stated.
She elaborated, "The 'Akka Force' will include women police officers and senior NCC cadets. They will be equipped with vehicles to patrol colleges and other public venues to reduce instances of child marriages and rapes, which are critical issues for us."
Hebbalkar continued, "Upon taking office, I established a committee comprising members from ten different departments to help prevent child marriages. This committee includes representatives from RDPR, Health, Education, Home, Social Welfare, Revenue, SC/ST Welfare, and other sectors. Their goal is to address child marriages from the gram panchayat level all the way to the district headquarters."
She mentioned, "We have also set up the '1098' helpline, which operates around the clock."
Previously, JD(S) MLA C.B. Suresh Babu reported that in 2023-24, at least 405 girls under the age of 18 were victims of child marriage, with a total of 709 child marriages occurring in the state. In 2024-25, 685 girls have already fallen victim. Over the last ten months, 26,463 instances of child pregnancies have been documented in Karnataka, raising serious alarms.”
In response, Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar stated, "I value the concern. Since our government took office, numerous amendments have been made to combat child pregnancies and marriages. We also introduced a bill focused on preventing child marriages in the Assembly on Tuesday."
"The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) operates in all districts and keeps separate records. If 26,463 child pregnancies were noted in just ten months, it's indeed alarming. Being from Belagavi, I can assert that the statistics regarding Belagavi district are not accurate," she commented.
Furthermore, she indicated that the state government is actively working against love marriages among minors and child marriages, which still occur in certain communities, and measures to regulate social media are being enforced.
Point of View
The introduction of 'Akka Force' highlights the urgent need to address systemic issues surrounding women's safety and child welfare in India. This initiative, while focused on local concerns, serves as an important reminder of the larger societal responsibilities we hold in safeguarding our youth. The collaboration of various departments indicates a multifaceted approach to tackling deeply rooted problems.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Akka Force'?
The 'Akka Force' is a new initiative launched in Karnataka to prevent rape, child marriages, and child pregnancies. It involves women police officers and NCC cadets patrolling public spaces.
When will 'Akka Force' be implemented?
'Akka Force' will begin its operations on August 15, starting with Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi districts.
What support will 'Akka Force' receive?
'Akka Force' members will be provided vehicles and training to effectively engage with communities and raise awareness about women's safety.
How is the government addressing child marriages?
The Karnataka government has formed a committee comprising members from various departments to tackle child marriages and has introduced legislative measures to combat this issue.
Is there a helpline for reporting issues related to child welfare?
Yes, the state has established a 24-hour helpline, '1098', for reporting cases related to child welfare.
