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New Delhi : Union Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry has initiated a National Helpline Against Atrocities (NHAA) on SCs/STs.. The Helpline is available round the clock on toll-free number “14566” across the country in Hindi, English, and regional language of the State/UTs. The Helpline can be accessed by making a voice call /VOIP either from a mobile or land line number of any Telecom Operator across the country. It is also available as a web based self-service portal, according to a PIB release.
Meant for generating informed awareness about the various provisions of the Prevention of Atrocities (PoA) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Right (PCR) Act, 1955, that are aimed at ending discrimination and providing protection to all, the Helpline ensures that every complaint is registered as FIRs, relief is provided, all registered complaints are investigated, and all chargesheets filed are prosecuted in the Courts for decision – all within the given timelines in the Act.
A Docket number is given for each complaint received from Victim/Complainant/NGOs regarding non-compliance of the POA Act, 1989, and the PCR Act, 1955. The status of the grievance can be tracked by complainant/NGOs online. Any inquiry is replied by IVR or operators in Hindi, English and Regional languages. Every provision of the POA Act, 1989, and the PCR Act, 1955, related to victim is monitored and compliance is ensured by triggering communication/ reminders with State/UT implementing authorities in the form of sending messages / E-mails. This Helpline adopts the concept of Single Point of Contact and has an efficient feedback system.