Shillong, May 12 (PTI) Meghalaya State Commission today launched a 24X7 helpline to assist women in the domains of harassment and distress.
“The helpline bearing number 181 is an attempt to provide all kinds of assistance – legal, police, medical, counseling and temporary support services – to women affected by violence,” Meghalaya State Commission for Women chairperson Theilin Phanbuh said here at its launch.
Its centre is currently situated at Ganesh Das Government Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Shillong.
“The helpline is a long felt need for women in distress and its launch will be a boon in reaching out to those who need of help,” she said.
Phanbuh also appealed to the helpline staff to dedicate themselves to the cause and work to restore the dignity of women.
Social welfare additional chief secretary H Marwein, who was present on the occasion, said that the helpline is an “effective mechanism that will go a long way in curbing sexual abuse and atrocities against women.”