Twitter logo, representative image. (Photo: Getty Images)
Every time someone searches for certain keywords associated with the issue of domestic violence, a prompt will direct them to the relevant information and sources of help available on Twitter.
- News18.com
- Last Updated: June 17, 2020, 12:26 PM IST
New Delhi In a bid to help tackle the spike in cases of domestic violence in India during the lockdown period, Twitter on Wednesday launched a dedicated search prompt to serve information and updates from authoritative sources around domestic violence.
The micor-blogging site has partnered with the Ministry of Women and Child Development the National Commission for Women in India to expand its efforts towards women.
The search prompt will be available on iOS, Android and on mobile.twitter.com in India, in both English and Hindi languages, the company said in a statement.
Data shows that since the outbreak of Covid-19, violence against women and girls has intensified in India and across the globe.
Also Read: NCW Receives 315 Domestic Violence Complaints in April Alone Amid Virus Lockdown
“We recognise collaboration with the public, government and NGOs is key to combating the complex issue of domestic violence. Accessing reliable information through this search prompt could be a survivor’s first step towards seeking help against abuse and violence,” said Mahima Kaul, Director, Public Policy, India and South Asia, Twitter.
Every time someone searches for certain keywords associated with the issue of domestic violence, a prompt will direct them to the relevant information and sources of help available on Twitter.
This is an expansion of Twitter’s #ThereIsHelp prompt, which was specifically put in place for the public to find clear, credible information on critical issues.
The feature will be reviewed at regular intervals by the Twitter team to ensure that all related keywords generate the proactive search prompt, the company said.
Also Read: India’s Domestic Abuse Survivors are in Lockdown with their Monsters, But Helplines Are Not Ringing
Violence against women and girls across Asia Pacific is pervasive but at the same time widely under reported.
“In fact, in many countries in our region, the number is even greater, with as many as 2 out of 3 women in some countries reporting experiences of violence,” added Melissa Alvarado, UN Women Asia Pacific Regional Manager on Ending Violence against Women.
Rekha Sharma, Chairperson, the NCW, said: “With social distancing norms in place, several women are unable to contact their regular support systems. This initiative by Twitter will provide big support to the survivors, who would otherwise be easily isolated without access to relevant information and help”.
(With inputs from IANS)
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