Panchkula Police Rolls Out Crisis Text Hotline to Help Teenagers in Distress

Panchkula  -25 november.Panchkula  Police today unveiled its plan to operationalize Crisis Text Hotline 98154-41091 to mark UN International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls. The aim is to enable women, particularly teenagers, to text about troubles that they are facing at home, school, neighborhood, transit, public space or workplaces. The problem reported may be anything from bullying, teasing, suicidal thoughts, molestation, rape and domestic violence. The move will further increase ease of reporting as text is the most popular form of communication, particularly among teenagers, these days. It has lower inhibition and a shelf life. The messages received will be attended by the officials and volunteers of the Counseling Wing of Mahila Police Station. It will prioritize texts received on the basis of severity of the problem reported and coordinate response with the concerned agencies to help the women and girls in need. The Police will also conduct an online program for volunteers who post-training can parttime serve as online counselors to women and girls in distress. Texts will also be analyzed to map the problem and devise effective solution as these are live data with location and time coordinates. The pattern detected will be used to devise effective counter plans and prevent victimization. Singhdwar in Mansa Devi Complex is being lit up in orange to convey a message of zero tolerance to violence against women and girls and spark off discussion and preventive actions. A “Voice Against Violence” workshop for school and college principals will be organized on 26 Nov to encourage them to organize activities for their staff and students to raise awareness level and necessity of resisting violence in all its form. Police will insist for formation of sexual harassment committees in facilities where women work. It will organize events like Marches, Marathons, Flashmob and musical conveys throughout 16 days to mobilize people and create awareness about the issue. It will also engage Auto and cab drivers and encourage them to care for women safety. The police will launch a special drive to expedite inquiries and investigation of complaints lodged by women and girls. Violence against women and girl is high on the police priority as it is violation of human right and is discrimination against women. It impedes progress in many areas like poverty eradication, combating diseases and ensuring peace and security. The CP called upon all stakeholders of society to take part in Orange Campaign for elimination of violence against women and girls in a big way.