DSK launches GBV support ‘Pink Towel’ campaign after handling 196 domestic violence cases - IOL

Dr Daniel Rudy Chettiar (founder of DSK Group), Jo Moodley (manager of Tongaat Child Welfare Society), Devi Moodley, (senior social worker at Tongaat Child Welfare Society), and Shanal Balkaran (leader of the North Coast Rapid Response Team), are ambassadors for the campaign.

The DSK Group has launched a Pink Towel Campaign after reporting 196 domestic-violence cases and three GBV-related murders in the Phoenix, Tongaat, Verulam and Ballito areas from January to 1 September.

The campaign kicked off last week and is gaining momentum in Durban and Johannesburg.

Dr Daniel Chettiar, founder of the DSK Group, said the campaign was launched in the midst of a ‘horrific increase’ in the number of GBV cases in Phoenix, Tongaat, Verulam, and Ballito.

“In recent months, we have had cases that were unimaginable. From January to September 1, we dealt with 196 cases of domestic violence, 26 cases of partner violence, 82 cases of sexual assault and 13 cases of harassment.

 “There were three GBV-related murders in the last three months. The surviving victims come to us as a 'last hope' and we try our best to help and support them.

"The statistics show that GBV has spiralled out of control, and we need to do more to support victims.

"We decided to launch the campaign as a reminder that every person has the power to make a difference,” Chettiar added.

He said a towel may seem ordinary to some people, but to victims of GBV, it becomes something they find comfort and protection in. 

“Once there was a pink towel that seemed ordinary, soft, simple, and easily overlooked. But this towel came to represent something much greater.

“It became a symbol of comfort, dignity, protection, and hope for women and children affected with gender-based violence.

“Like a towel that wraps around someone after a difficult day, we too can wrap our communities in support and safety.

“We can listen without judgement, speak up when someone else is being harmed, and remind survivors that they are not alone. The pink towel reminds us that something small can carry a powerful message,” he added.

Chettiar said it representsed the strength to wipe away tears, the courage to speak out, and the commitment to create a safer future.

For more information on how you can contribute to the campaign, call Chettiar on 078 688 6623.