Coming down heavily on the failure of the administrative machinery in protecting girls and women who were victims of sexual violence in Pollachi, a group of women activists, including former senior government officials have come together to provide help. They have formed the Forum for Complaints Against Sexual Violence, which victims from across the State can call to share their pain and find a remedy.

Addressing a press meet on Tuesday, former IPS officer and writer Thilakavathi said the organisation would only aim to strengthen the hands of the investigating agency. “We will maintain the confidentiality of the victims. We have many lawyers and psychiatrists amongst us and we will help them. Our aim is to ensure that the perpetrators are punished and victims provided help,” she said. She also said the media should follow Supreme Court guidelines when reporting such cases.

‘People lost confidence’

Educationist Vasantha Devi said the Pollachi incident, that shocked the country, only showed that people had lost confidence and trust in official mechanism. “Information that we are getting now shows that hundreds of women were subjected to such violence in the area. Something has lead to all these women remaining silent despite the presence of so many organisations established for their safety,” she said.

Advocate Sudha Ramalingam said the Forum would press for speedy trial of the case. Victims of sexual violence, including children and women, can call or WhatsApp on 9994368566.