Punjab Police Sets Up Helpline Number For Kashmiris Facing Threats

Punjab Police has set up a help desk for prompt redressal of complaints filed by Kashmiris days after Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh assured full support for the students from the valley.

The toll-free helpline number "181' will ensure prompt and effective response for Kashmiri students facing any kind of harassment or trouble in the state, said officials concerned.

The initiative has been taken amid reports of violence in Punjab and other parts of the country after over 40 CRPF soldiers were killed in Pulwama attack.

Mr Singh announced within hours of the attack that his government would ensure the full safety and security of Kashmiris in the state and would not allow them to be harassed in any way.

"Kashmiris are as much a part of India as Kashmir is and abusing or harassing them for the act of ISI-backed terrorists is not only unconstitutional but also inhuman," he had said.

To seek help, people from Kashmir can dial up "181" or send an SMS or Whatsapp message on "76961-81181". They can also fax their complaints to 0172-6626181 and e-mail it to help@181pph.com.

The Punjab Police has designated Surjeet Singh, DIG, Law & Order, as the nodal officer for managing the response and redressal of the complaints. According to a Punjab Police notification, the DIG will oversee all issues pertaining to the people from Jammu and Kashmir living in the jurisdiction of state of Punjab.

According to an official spokesperson, the Chief Minister has directed the police department to ensure that all complaints and grievances shared by the Kashmiris in Punjab are promptly redressed.