India Opens Women’s Helpline Centre in Toronto After Indian Woman’s Murder

New Support Initiative for Indian Women in Canada

The Consulate General of India in Toronto has launched a new One Stop Centre for Women (OSCW) to support Indian women facing difficult situations in Canada. This step was taken soon after a tragic incident in which a 30-year-old Indian woman was found murdered in Toronto.

As a result, the move has been widely seen as an effort to improve women’s safety and access to help abroad.

Who Can Use the One Stop Centre for Women

The OSCW is meant only for Indian passport holders. It focuses on helping women dealing with domestic violence, abuse, family disputes, abandonment, exploitation, and legal problems.

Moreover, the centre works closely with local agencies to ensure women receive timely and lawful assistance under Canadian regulations.

Key Services Provided by the Centre

The centre offers practical, emotional, and legal support in a safe and respectful manner. Most importantly, help is available around the clock.

Main Services Include:

• 24×7 helpline for urgent distress calls

• Immediate counselling and emotional support

• Psycho-social care through approved NGOs

• Legal guidance for family and abuse-related cases

• Connections to Canadian social and community services

• Financial help, provided on a means-tested basis under Government of India rules

In addition, a woman administrator oversees the centre to ensure confidential, dignified, and women-focused support at all times.

Centre Operates from Indian Consulate in Toronto

The One Stop Centre for Women operates directly from the Indian Consulate in Toronto. Therefore, coordination with Indian authorities is faster and more effective.

Meanwhile, all actions taken by the centre strictly follow local Canadian laws, ensuring transparency and legal compliance.

Incident That Led to the Centre’s Launch

Days before the centre was announced, Himanshi Khurana, a 30-year-old Indian woman, was found dead inside a Toronto residence. Consequently, the case sparked serious concern among the Indian community.

Canadian police later named 32-year-old Abdul Ghafoori as the main suspect and issued a nationwide arrest warrant.

Case Timeline:

• December 19: A missing person report was filed around 10:40 pm from the Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West area

• December 20: Police found the woman’s body at about 6:30 am

• Authorities officially classified the case as a homicide

Furthermore, police confirmed that the victim and suspect knew each other. Images of both were shared publicly to help locate the suspect. Reports suggest they were in a personal relationship.

Strengthening Safety for Indian Women Overseas

Overall, the launch of the One Stop Centre for Women in Toronto reflects India’s growing focus on protecting Indian women living abroad. By offering 24-hour help, counselling, and legal support, the centre aims to ensure that women receive help before situations turn dangerous.

Ultimately, the initiative sends a clear message: Indian women overseas are not alone and help is always available.