Thiruvananthapuram | Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Sunday urged young women and girls to not let fear limit their voice and to speak up about any discrimination they face in their homes, friendships and relationships.

Chennithala, in a Facebook post, said that the occasion of International Day of the Girl Child on October 11 such women's plight should be recognised.

His remarks come in the wake of the Keralam Police launching, earlier this week, a special task force, 'Speak Up', to tackle domestic violence and provide survivors with legal, counselling and livelihood support.

IG Ajitha Beegam has been given special charge of the initiative, which seeks to create a safe mechanism for women to report domestic violence and access police assistance, particularly in cases where they are unable to lodge complaints directly.

On Sunday, the minister further said that today's young women have their own voice, clear thoughts and a confident smile that attracts anyone and this was thanks to a generation of parents raising them with equality instead of restrictions.

"But there are still many girls among us who suffer in silence, not knowing how to respond despite facing discrimination in their homes, friendships, and relationships. Let us recognise them on this day -- October 11 -- International Day of the Girl Child.

"Kids, let no fear limit your voice; you must speak your truths out loud -- Speak Up! There is someone who will listen," he said in his post.