Centre to launch National Helpline against atrocities on SCs, STs

Union Minister Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar launched a National Helpline Against Atrocities in New Delhi on SCs, STs. The objective of the helpline, reportedly, is to build awareness about the provisions of the Act that are aimed at ending discrimination and providing protection to all. The Helpline will be available 24-7 on toll-free number – 14566.

The service will be available in Hindi, English and the regional languages of the states and Union territories. The mobile application of the NHAA will also be available. The objective of this helpline is to spread awareness about the provision of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

All registered complaints will be investigated and all charge sheets filed are prosecuted in the Courts for decision within the given timelines in the Act. A docket number will be given for each complaint received from Victim/Complainant/NGOs regarding non-compliance with The Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955 and the Prevention of Atrocities (POA) Act, 1989.