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Organization	Karuna Trust
Region	India
Website	Website
Facebook	Facebook
Twitter	@Twitter
ProjectLeader	Akashamitra Turnbull

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This project works to empower Dalit and Tribal women's groups to come together to tackle issues of violence against women in India. 70% of Indian women are victims of domestic violence. Reported rapes increased to 33,707 in 2013. Many more cases go unreported and marital rape is not a criminal offence in India. Dalit and Adivasi women are particularly vulnerable to violence due to their low social and economic status.

Challenge

Violence against women is an enduring problem in India. 70% of women are victims of domestic violence. In 2013, reported rapes rose 35% to 33,707. A great number of rape cases go unreported, and marital rape is not a criminal offence in India. In addition to this, Honour killings, female infanticide, and acid attacks are all significant problems in India today. Dalit (low-caste) and Adivasi (tribal) women are particularly at risk from violence, because of their low economic and social status.

Long-Term Impact

In the long-term, Karuna's partner organisations are working to empower women and change attitudes in wider society. We have already seen reduced violence against women in some of the villages and slums we have been working in for more than 2 years. This results not only in reduced violence, but also a general increase in the value of women in society as indicated by increased enrolment of girls in school, women able to leave the house and find work, and some even running for village parliament.