Gujarat is considered one of the safer states for women, with a lower crime rate against them compared to many other states. However, the state continues to take proactive steps to ensure women’s safety. Several years ago, the Gujarat government launched a 24/7 women’s helpline to provide immediate protection, support, and guidance to women facing different forms of violence, including domestic abuse.

To further strengthen this initiative, a dedicated mobile application—181 Abhayam Women Helpline—was introduced, which every woman should have on her phone.

181 Abhayam Women Helpline: A Lifeline for Women in Distress

In 2015, the Gujarat government launched the 181 Abhayam Women Helpline to offer immediate assistance to women in distress. Unlike the general emergency number 100, this helpline is specifically designed to handle cases related to:

• Harassment in public places
• Domestic violence
• Threats or fear of assault
• Other emergency situations involving women

Additionally, the Abhayam team provides counseling services for women dealing with domestic disputes. To make this service even more accessible, the government introduced the 181 Abhayam mobile app for smartphone users.

How Does It Work?

If a woman faces any trouble, she can either call 181 or use the 181 Abhayam mobile app for faster assistance.

1. Call 181 for Immediate Help:

   • In case of an emergency, a woman can dial 181, provide her details, and receive immediate assistance.
   • The helpline team dispatches the nearest PCR (Police Control Room) van to her location for rescue.

2. Use the 181 Abhayam Mobile App:

   • By downloading and registering on the app, women can call for help without needing to explain their location.
   • The app automatically detects and shares the caller’s exact location with the helpline’s response center.
   • This saves time in locating the caller and allows for faster emergency response.

How to Register on the 181 Abhayam App?

1. Download the app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and grant necessary permissions for location, voice recording, and calls.
3. Read and accept the terms and conditions.
4. Register your details:
   • Enter your full name, gender, marital status, and date of birth.
   • Provide your mobile number and add up to three emergency contacts (such as family or friends).
   • Select your district and address before completing the registration.
   • Verify your number via OTP to activate the account.

Once registered, the app provides a one-click emergency button (181) to immediately connect with the helpline. It also features a camera and video option to record evidence if needed.

Who Can Use This Service?

• Any woman or girl in distress can call 181 or use the Abhayam app for immediate help.
• Men who wish to report or assist a woman in danger can also use the service.
• Women from other states visiting Gujarat can also benefit from this helpline.

Importantly, the identity of all callers is kept confidential, ensuring privacy and safety.

Why Is This Initiative Important?

This helpline and app are free to use and available 24/7 across Gujarat. Whether it’s harassment at school, college, public places, or domestic violence, women can rely on 181 Abhayam for immediate protection and assistance.

This initiative reinforces Gujarat’s commitment to women’s safety and empowerment, ensuring that help is always just a call or tap away.