Kochi: The number of women who have completed the self-defence training provided by the Kerala Police to prevent violence against women has crossed 12 lakhs. Classes are being given on topics such as training to subdue those who come to physically confront them, creating awareness about women's safety laws, and laws related to women. Free self-defence training in three stages: basic, intermediate, and advanced, is being provided in each district. The training is being conducted with schools, colleges, residents' associations, cultural organisations, and Kudumbashree members as participants. The training is being provided by selected women police officers.

Women working in the Beverages Corporation, women KSRTC conductors who have to work night shifts, college students, and housewives are among those who have received the training. The self-defence training is being implemented in conjunction with projects implemented with women’s safety in mind, such as Aparajita, Pink Police, Nizhal, Women’s Police Station, and Women’s Cell.

Nearly 20,000 cases of violence against women are registered in Kerala every year. Nearly 3,000 rape cases and over 4,000 harassment cases occur annually. The police have come forward with self-defence in the backdrop of changes in women’s working hours.