Panchkula police start crisis text hotline to check violence against women

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, November 25

Beginning the 16-day Orange Campaign, the Panchkula district police started a crisis text hotline 98154-41091 to mark UN International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls today.

Ambala Range Police Commissioner OP Singh said their aim was to enable women, particularly teenagers, to text them their troubles at home, schools, neighborhood, transit, public spaces or workplaces. “Complaints regarding bullying, teasing, suicidal thoughts, molestation, rape and domestic violence can be submitted through the hotline way,” he said.

The received messages will be attended by officials and volunteers of the counseling wing of the Mahila Police Station. It will prioritise texts received on the basis of severity of the problem and coordinate response with the agencies concerned to help the women and girls in need.

“The police will also conduct an online programme for volunteers who can serve part-time counselors to women and girls after the training. The text will also be analysed to map the problem and devise an effective solution as these are live data with location and time coordinates. The detected pattern will be used to devise effective counter plans and prevent victimisation,” added Singh.

The singhdwar in the Mansa Devi complex is being lit up in orange to convey the message of zero tolerance for violence against women and girls. A “voice against violence” workshop for school and college principals will be organised tomorrow to encourage them organise activities for their staff and students to raise awareness and the necessity of resisting violence against women in all its form.

“The police will insist on the formation of sexual harassment committees at workplaces for women. We will organise marches, marathons and flashmob during the campaign to mobilise people and create awareness on the issue. It will also engage auto and cab drivers and encourage them to care for the safety of women,” said the Commissioner of police.