Partners : NOVIB and Karnataka State Women's Development Corporation

At the request of the Government of Karnataka, MYRADA had deputed one of its senior staff to the Karnataka State Women's Development Corporation; she was appointed as Project Officer of the Devadasi Programme in Belgaum District. As the programme expanded MYRADA opened a small project office to take up development activities that could supplement and support the efforts of the Government.

MASS (Mahila Abhivruddhi matthu Samrakshana Samsthe)- the association of ex-devadasis - is registered and is gradually acquiring the skills needed to operate independently. In addition, to NOVIB's support, SDC has come forward with an offer of legal assistance to devadasis and other women in distress. Though the MYRADA staff's deputation to KSWDC has ended and support from NOVIB has also scaled down, MASS continues to be active and is even being invited to the neighbouring districts of Bijapur and Raichur to share its experiences, that can be of help to women in similar circumstances.

Recently, efforts have been initiated involving a cross-section of lawyers and social activists to analyse the KDP (Karnataka Devadasi Prevention of Dedication) Act, collect data on its applications so far, and suggest changes that can make the legal environment more conducive for persecuted women to secure justice.