The Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens has issued a press release expressing concern over recent reports of sexual violence against women and girls. The ministry stated that the Constitution of Nepal and international conventions including CEDAW, CRC and CRPD protect the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
The ministry said all forms of physical, mental, sexual, psychological and economic violence against women and girls are serious violations of fundamental and human rights. It added that awareness programs, prevention campaigns, victim protection, rehabilitation and coordination with concerned agencies are being carried out regularly to reduce gender-based violence.
The ministry has requested anyone with information about sexual violence to immediately contact the National Women Commission helpline 1145, Nepal Police 100, Child Helpline 1098, Missing Children Search Service 104, nearby hospitals’ One-Stop Crisis Management Centres, or the ministry through gbvps.mowcsc@gmail.com, mobile number 9851311112, or WhatsApp.
The ministry also appealed to individuals, families, communities, government bodies, private sector, media and civil society organizations to contribute actively to building a society free from gender-based violence.
