About Abhaya: The movement for a safer India
Bengaluru: Team Abhaya is an apolitical group demanding strict and swift punishments for perpetrators of sexual violence. The movement calls for judicial reforms to ensure sensitivity in handling such cases and seeks to create a secure environment for all individuals, irrespective of gender. Their mission is to hold law enforcement and the judicial system accountable in delivering justice and fostering a crime-free society.
Brinda Adige honoured with Abhaya Bravery Award
Brinda Adige, a noted women’s rights activist, has been awarded the Abhaya Bravery Award for her contributions to social reform. She has worked extensively with urban and rural communities, particularly advocating for women in the unorganised sector.
Brinda Adige’s contributions:
- Holds a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from Bangalore University.
- Pioneered India’s first Child Protection Helpline, Makkala Sahaya Vani, within the Bangalore Police Commissioner’s Office in 1997. The helpline was recognised in the UNDOC 2002 report for fostering child-friendly policing.
- Developed a Gender-Sensitive Police Training Module, included in Karnataka Police Training Academies and referenced in India’s 2004 CEDAW Report.
- Awarded the Ford Motor Company Fellowship and completed a Community Leadership & Advocacy certificate course at Columbia University, NY.
- Led the Safer Cities Free from Violence initiative, focusing on legal aid, victim compensation, and witness protection, supported by the Hanns Seidel Foundation.
- Serves as Convener of Mukti, an alliance combating human trafficking and bonded labour.
- Member of the Karnataka State High Power Committee and the Bengaluru District Legal Services Task Force on human trafficking.
- External POSH Committee Member for various corporates and the Central Bureau of Communications, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Bengaluru.
- Founder-Director of Global Concerns India, a Bengaluru-based organisation working on education, gender equity, vocational training, and anti-human trafficking efforts.
Her relentless work in social justice, law enforcement training, and victim advocacy has significantly impacted the fight for gender equality and human rights in India.
