Punjab : In line with the Bhagwant Singh Mann–led Punjab Government’s commitment to victim-centric policing and strengthening support systems for women, Punjab Police has set up a ‘Saanjh Rahat Kendra’ at the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar to provide dedicated assistance to victims of domestic violence.
The support centre was inaugurated by Special Director General of Police (Community Affairs Division and Women Affairs) Gurpreet Kaur Deo, in the presence of Commissioner of Police Jalandhar Dhanpreet Kaur. The initiative marks a major step towards offering timely psycho-social and legal help to women in distress through coordinated community efforts.
Established within the hospital premises under the supervision of the Commissionerate Police, Jalandhar, the centre has been designed to ensure easy access and confidentiality for victims. Its objective is early identification of domestic violence cases and the provision of integrated support services, including counselling, legal assistance, and rehabilitation support.
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Special DGP Gurpreet Kaur Deo highlighted the importance of a sensitive police response and strong coordination among departments to effectively address cases of domestic abuse. She said the Saanjh Rahat Kendra would act as a crucial link between victims and various support mechanisms such as legal aid services, professional counselling, shelter homes, and government welfare schemes, helping to create a safer and more supportive environment for women.
Punjab Police ensures fast, victim-friendly assistance
She further informed that trained counsellors with backgrounds in Psychology and Social Work will be stationed at the centre to assist women reporting cases at the hospital. The centre will also work closely with Women Help Desks at police stations and other relevant agencies to ensure quick and effective resolution of complaints.
Reaffirming the police department’s focus on women’s safety and community-based policing, CP Dhanpreet Kaur said the initiative reflects a proactive and victim-friendly approach aimed at providing support and accessibility to women when they need it most.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by ADCP-II Akarshi Jain, Civil Surgeon Dr Rajesh Garg, Chief Judicial Magistrate Rahul Kumar Azad, and representatives from the Sakhi One Stop Centre.