Tatsat Chronicle Magazine

National Helpline Against Atrocities on SCs/STs Launched

The toll-free number, 14566, will build informed awareness about the provisions of the law that are aimed at ending discrimination and provide protection to all
December 13, 2021
Helpline for SC ST

The Government of India has launched a helpline devised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, to ensure proper implementation of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The helpline will be available round the clock on the toll-free number, 14566, in Hindi, English and regional languages of the States/UTs, ensuring registration of every complaint as an FIR.

The National Helpline Against Atrocities (NHAA) can be accessed by making a voice call/VOIP either from a mobile or landline number of any telecom operator across the country. Its mobile application will also be available.

The objective of the helpline is to build informed awareness about the provisions of the law that are aimed at ending discrimination and providing protection to all. The system will ensure that every complaint is registered as an FIR, relief is provided, all registered complaints are investigated and all charge sheets filed are prosecuted in the courts for decision – all within the given timelines in the Act. Available as a web-based self-service portal also, the NHAA will generate awareness about the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955 and its rules as well.

A docket number shall be given for each complaint received from victim/complainant/NGOs regarding non-compliance with the POA Act, 1989 and the PCR Act, 1955. The status of the grievance can be tracked by complainants/NGOs online. Any inquiry shall be replied to by IVR or operators in Hindi, English and regional languages. The helpline will adopt the concept of a single point of contact and have a proper feedback system.