RAHAT - Socio-Legal Support for Victims-Survivors of Sexual Violence

Victims of sexual violence suffer from multiple vulnerabilities; with most of them coming from impoverished families, without a formal education, and facing several other disadvantages and marginalisation. Given this background, approaching formidable institutions like police, hospitals and courts can be very daunting.

Majlis also identified gaps arising out of the large number of cases and disconnect between stakeholders in the justice system that often results in the victim having to run from pillar to post for support.

The RAHAT programme was started to bridge gaps in the provision of justice to victims and survivors of sexual violence by providing continuous legal support and representation to them from registration of the FIR, until completion of the trial. The RAHAT team also ensures a victim truly transforms from a victim to a survivor, through the provision of various social support services. The team works closely with Child Welfare Committees and District Child Protection Units, appointed special courts and with the Judiciary, Police, Public Prosecutors, legal aid lawyers, medical officers, NGOs and CBOs.

We have provided social and legal support to over 75000 victims of sexual assault.