A mobile app “Joy” was launched on Sunday in an attempt to provide immediate assistance to women and children who are already or are about to be victims of torture or violence.
State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroze Chumki opened the app as the chief guest at a function at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy auditorium in the city, a press release said.
Access to Information (a2i) Programme of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division and the Multi-Sectoral Programme on Violence against Women (MSPVAW) of the Women and Children Affairs Ministry jointly organised the function.
ICT Division Secretary Zuena Aziz and Director General of Women Affairs Department Kazi Rowshon, among others, were present at the function.
The mobile-based “Joy” application software has been developed by MSPWAW with funding and technical support from the Access to Information (a2i) of Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Any one from anywhere can search for “Joy 109” app at the Google App Store and download it at their android-based phone.
During an emergency, the app user can instantaneously send distress SMS to the Police Super, Deputy Police Commissioner of the metropolitan police, three selected FNF (friend and family) numbers and the National Helpline Center (109).
Also, just by pressing an emergency button and without alerting the offender, the app user who may be the victim can share GPS location, audio recording, and even picture of the surrounding to the concerned officers via mobile message.
This would count as evidence that the Joy Apps Center can later use to help the victim get justice. If someone wants to file a written complaint, it can be done by clicking the ‘Complain’ option in the app, selecting complaint type and sending complain with all details.
‘Attach’ option allows to attach images and audio. The photos and audio captured from the apps will be kept confidential and can only be seen by the implementing agency, Joy Apps Center.
