Kamal Ghorui
GURGAON: Rising domestic violence and fast-growing cybercrime complaints are driving an unprecedented spike at the city’s One Stop Centre, with cases jumping from just 86 in 2016-17 to 1,984 in 2024-25 – an increase of over 2,200% – and 368 more already reported in the first three months of 2026.Officials said nearly 60% of cases relate to domestic abuse, while cyber harassment, stalking and online fraud now form rapidly expanding segment, reflecting changing patterns of crime against women. The centre, which receives 120-150 cases every month largely through the Women Helpline 181, has become a key intervention point, handling everything from marital disputes to serious rescue operations.The numbers portray both the scale of the problem and the impact of timely intervention, inlcuding resolving non-violdent disputes linked to emotional and financial exploitation.In a case from Dec 2025, a woman approached the helpline alleging fraud and exploitation by a married man she was in a relationship with for nearly two years. Financial transactions and exchange of household items took place during this period, but after the relationship ended, the man refused to return her belongings and ₹18,000 he owed her. The centre called both parties for counselling, where, the accused, who arrived with his wife, agreed to settle the matter. He transferred the full amount online and returned the items, following which the centre facilitated a mutual settlement and advised both parties to cut off contact.In another case from April 2025, a woman from IMT Manesar reached out alleging physical abuse and harassment by her husband, who she said was addicted to alcohol and involved in an extramarital relationship. During the counselling session, the husband admitted his behaviour, apologised and assured that he would not repeat such actions. The centre facilitated reconciliation, with both parties agreeing to continue the marriage under improved conditions.Officials said such cases highlight how counselling remains one of the most effective tools, especially where victims seek resolution rather than separation.In a separate case, a Gurgaon woman accused her husband and in-laws of physical assault, financial coercion and repeated abuse. She alleged that she was forced to bring money from her parental home and was threatened with death. The centre intervened, conducted counselling sessions and secured a written undertaking from the husband promising to end the violence. While such compromises are often complex, officials said they are guided by the woman’s consent and immediate safety considerations.Officials at the centre said that beyond the rise in numbers, there is a clear increase in awareness, with more women now willing to report abuse, fraud, stalking and harassment. “However, the surge has also put pressure on limited resources. Despite handling nearly 2,000 cases a year, the centre operates with just three to four staff members, far below the required strength. Key positions such as counsellors, legal advisers and medical professionals remain vacant, impacting the scale of services,” an official said.
