Chandigarh: Women’s safety has always been a priority for the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab. This is why the Mann government is continuously working to protect women and children. ‘Project Hifazat’, an initiative launched by the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab for the safety and dignity of women and children, aims to eliminate the fear that prevents them from reporting violence and harassment. It provides immediate assistance 24 hours a day through the 181 helpline number, eliminating the fear of domestic violence, workplace harassment, or any other abuse against women and children.
On International Women’s Day, Dr. Baljeet Kaur, Minister of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Punjab, launched ‘Project Hifazat’. The project aims to strengthen the response system for victims of violence against women and children. This mission of the Punjab government aims to ensure the safety and dignity of all. This project will help reach victims and provide an integrated support system. Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the primary objective of launching ‘Project Hifazat’ is to provide assistance to women who are victims of domestic violence, workplace harassment, or any other form of violence but are unable to express their problems due to fear. She said that all women should add the number 181 to their mobile phone contact list so that they can contact us without fear in case of any violence.
Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s dream is to make Punjab a prosperous and safe state. This will only be possible when the women of the state live without fear. She said that ‘Project Hifazat’ will play a vital role in this direction. She added that despite numerous schemes, many challenges still remain in providing timely assistance. ‘Project Hifazat’ is designed to address these issues by streamlining coordination between various departments and agencies. This will ensure victims receive immediate assistance.
This helpline will provide immediate support and guidance to women and children in distress. Calls will be classified as emergency, non-emergency, or information, and emergency cases will be immediately transferred to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112). This initiative will promote coordination between the Social Security, Women and Child Development Departments, the Punjab Police, and the Health and Family Welfare Department. This collaboration will help in providing rescue operations, legal aid, medical assistance, and psychosocial support. The program will be administered by District Program Officers under the supervision of Deputy Commissioners. Dedicated vehicles will be provided in each district to provide timely assistance to victims.
In non-emergency cases, psychological counseling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services will be provided through One-Stop Centers (OSCs), District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), and District Centers for Women Empowerment. Victims will also be provided information about shelter homes and welfare schemes. He said that a state-of-the-art control room in Chandigarh will manage call traffic, provide information on women-centric schemes, and generate reports for monitoring and evaluation. Dr. Baljeet Kaur reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of women and children. She said, “Through Project Hifazat, we are ensuring that no victim feels neglected or helpless. This initiative will create a safe environment and empower victims to live a life with dignity.”
The Cabinet Minister appealed to citizens to call helpline numbers 181 and 1098 to report any cases of violence against women and children. By strengthening legal and social support, ‘Project Hifazat’ will improve the effective enforcement of key laws, including the Domestic Violence Act and the POCSO Act, leading to a safer and more just society. “Project Hifazat,” launched by the Mann government, isn’t just a government scheme. It’s an emotional support for every daughter, sister, and mother who still lives in fear, within the confines of their homes or the dark corners of their workplaces. Hifazat isn’t just a project; it’s a new hope that fills millions of eyes: that daughters in Punjab will no longer live in fear, but with their heads held high.
