Tiruvannamalai police launch round-the-clock helpline for youngsters

Dedicated helpdesk set up at the district’s Superintendent of Police office

Tiruvannamalai Superintendent of Police (SP) A. Pavan Kumar Reddy launched a helpline number (9549-174-174) in the district on Saturday to provide counselling for youngsters, especially students, who are in distress and need mental and moral support.

Named ‘Disai’, the initiative aims to provide counselling to on various issues, including family problems. A dedicated helpdesk has been set up at the SP office for the purpose, with a women inspector handling the calls. The helpline is a round-the-clock service.

“With the board examinations and results thereafter, students will be under immense stress over the results. Also, those with family problems will also be given counselling under the initiative,” Mr. Reddy said.

As per the plan, the counsellor at the SP office will receive the call and provide necessary guidance to the caller. The counsellor will also meet them in person if needed. Counsellors from Childline will also be roped in to help with the initiative.

The counselling will also include providing guidance against child marriage, tips to protect oneself from sexual assault and confidence building measures for stressed out youngsters.