In just 11 days, the Childline India helpline received more than 92,000 SOS calls asking for protection from abuse and violence, which gives a shocking indication that the mandatory lockdown imposed due to Coronavirus has lead to troubles for women and children who are now with their abusers.

Harleen Walia, deputy director of Childline India revealed that the CHILDLINE 1098 helpline for children had received 3.07 lakhs calls in March 20-31, which was the first week of lockdown, and 30% of these calls (92,105 calls in total) sought protection from abuse and violence against children.

Harleen Walia further added that the number of calls increased by 50% after Indian prime minister Narendra Modi announced the mandatory 21 days lockdown on March 24. The helpline had reportedly also received 1677 calls regarding the coronavirus and 237 calls which sought help for sick people.