CRPF to launch helpline for Kashmiris on Friday

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will launch a toll-free helpline called "Madadgaar" on Friday to help Kashmiri people in distress in a bid to regain the lost trust of the people in the security forces, an official said.

The helpline 14411 will be functional round-the-clock to render assistance to people in medical emergencies as well as natural and man-made calamities, CRPF Deputy Inspector General M. Dinakaran told IANS on Thursday.

"'Madadgaar' is a step to serve the citizens of Kashmir located all over the country. Besides providing assistance in distress, the helpline would also aid career counselling for those interested in joining the paramilitary forces and sports activities of the CRPF.

"It will also help victims of drug addiction by referring them to counsellors, provide important information on tourism, especially to pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi and Amarnath shrines. It will also take action on women safety calls," a CRPF statement said.

The helpline would be launched by Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra, it said, adding that the 47 Battalions of the 3.13 lakh strong force currently deployed in the Kashmir Valley "will try to rebuild the lost trust of the people" by projecting the security forces' humane face.

The statement said the success of the helpline could only be assured if the relevant departments of the state also respond to the pleas as and when approached by the CRPF as the force would be a mere link between the citizens and the state administration.

In the long run, the CRPF should not be seen "merely as villains of peace and perpetrators of violence and injustice but as well wishers of the people of Kashmir who sincerely wish to witness peace, tranquility and prosperity return to the Valley", it said. - IANS