“Uttar Pradesh has revamped its Women Power Line 1090 to provide 24/7 emergency support, offering immediate assistance, counseling, and legal aid to women in distress. The upgraded helpline integrates with police and One Stop Centres, ensuring swift response to violence and harassment cases, while also providing information on government schemes for women’s welfare.”
Uttar Pradesh Bolsters Women’s Safety with Upgraded 1090 Helpline
In a significant move to enhance women’s safety, Uttar Pradesh has revamped its Women Power Line 1090, a dedicated helpline aimed at providing immediate and comprehensive support to women facing violence or distress. Launched initially in 2012, the helpline has been lauded for its accessibility and effectiveness, and the recent upgrade, announced in 2025, introduces advanced features to ensure faster response times and broader outreach. The initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to reducing crimes against women and empowering them through accessible support systems.
The revamped 1090 helpline operates 24/7, offering a toll-free service that women across Uttar Pradesh can access via phone or the dedicated mobile application. Callers are connected to trained counselors who provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and guidance. The helpline is integrated with local police stations, One Stop Centres (OSCs), hospitals, and District Legal Service Authorities (DLSAs) to facilitate immediate action, such as rescue operations, medical assistance, or legal recourse. This multi-agency coordination ensures that women in distress receive holistic support under one platform.
A key feature of the upgraded helpline is its use of technology to improve response efficiency. The system now includes real-time tracking of complaints, enabling authorities to monitor case progress and ensure timely resolution. The mobile app allows users to upload images or videos, which counselors can use to assess situations more effectively, particularly in cases of domestic violence or public harassment. Additionally, the helpline provides information on government schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Mission Shakti, empowering women with knowledge about their rights and available resources.
According to recent data from the Uttar Pradesh government, the Women Power Line 1090 has handled over 1.5 million calls since its inception, with a significant spike in usage following the 2025 upgrade. The helpline has been particularly effective in addressing domestic violence, sexual harassment, and cybercrime, with thousands of women benefiting from counseling and legal aid annually. The state has also introduced awareness campaigns to promote the helpline, targeting rural areas where access to such services is often limited.
The initiative has received praise from various quarters, including women’s rights organizations and international bodies like UNICEF, which commended the helpline’s role in fostering a safer environment for women. However, challenges remain, such as ensuring consistent service quality in remote regions and addressing the stigma that prevents some women from seeking help. The government has pledged to address these gaps by expanding outreach and training more personnel to handle sensitive cases with empathy and efficiency.
The upgraded 1090 helpline is part of Uttar Pradesh’s broader efforts to enhance women’s safety, alongside initiatives like the Anti-Romeo Squad and the establishment of Fast Track Special Courts for sexual assault cases. By leveraging technology and inter-agency collaboration, the state aims to create a robust support system that empowers women to live with dignity and security.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, recent news reports, and reliable sources such as The Economic Times and the National Commission for Women. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details through official channels.