The special cell, which will function in the premises of Thousand Lights Police Station in the city, was inaugurated by Social Welfare Department Principal Secretary K Manivasan in the presence of City Police Commissioner AK Viswanathan. 

Women who have been subjected to any kind of harassment or violence can get in touch with the special cell through the 94983 36002 for psychological and legal counselling, with complete protection of their identity.

Currently, two counsellors – Shoba and Mohanapriya – who were trained by TISS would be available from 10 am to 6 pm at the special cell on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, they would visit the victims’ neighbourhood to give counselling as well as All-Women Police Stations to offer guidance to the police personnel.

“Police officers at All-Women Police Stations and other police stations should refer the aggrieved women to the centre. The police also should try to make arrangements to invite the experts to their stations if needed,” said Commissioner Viswanathan after the centre’s inauguration.

He also appealed to the additional commissioners to arrange training sessions to spread awareness about the cell among police personnel in the city. “Minor issues could be solved through the special cell,” he pointed out.

The special cell would also help women victims find an alternative place to live and train them in different trades, with the help of different welfare organisations. The other three districts in which special cells were launched are Tirunelveli, Salem and Madurai.