Tirunelveli Police Launch 'Kaadhal Pannunga' Week to Combat Youth Suicide
In a proactive move to address rising concerns over adolescent mental health, the Tirunelveli district police have inaugurated a weeklong awareness initiative titled 'Kaadhal Pannunga - Ungalai Kaadhaliyungal'. This campaign, strategically timed around Valentine's Day celebrations, aims to curb suicidal tendencies among young people by fostering emotional resilience and maturity.
Collaborative Effort for Youth Guidance
Organized in partnership with the district education and social welfare departments, the initiative seeks to guide students onto a positive life path. It focuses on addressing the complex emotional challenges of adolescence before they escalate into impulsive or harmful decisions. District Superintendent of Police V Prassanna Kumar is overseeing the program, which runs from February 9 to February 14.
The core message emphasizes that while attraction is a natural part of growing up, it must be handled with maturity to safeguard one's future. Police teams are conducting morning and evening sessions at schools and colleges across the district. These discussions cover psychological hurdles, the critical importance of education, and healthy ways to express emotions.
Comprehensive Educational Outreach
According to Venkatraman Murugan, the social media coordinator for Tirunelveli district police, the outreach extends beyond students. It includes:
- Training sessions for headmasters to better support their pupils.
- Orientation programs for police officers to enhance their responsiveness.
- Informative sessions for parents and self-help group members to create a supportive community network.
Additionally, police officials are delving into sensitive topics such as sex education and the various physical and mental changes that occur during puberty. To provide expert guidance, Dr. Ashok, a child psychology expert from Erode, has been enlisted to counsel and advise students throughout the week.
Trigger and Preventive Measures
SP Prassanna Kumar revealed that the initiative was prompted by tragic incidents last year, where several young individuals attempted to end their lives close to Valentine's Day. "This triggered us to launch the initiative to curtail such incidents," he stated. "The aim is to sensitize students and youth and guide them on the right path in case of rejection of love proposals."
To amplify the message, the police are planning to produce short videos and organize a flash mob. Furthermore, a nodal woman police officer has been designated for each school and college in the district. These officers will serve as first responders in any emergency situations where students might attempt self-harm.
Beyond Emotional Support: Legal and Health Awareness
The sessions are not limited to emotional guidance. They also provide crucial information on:
- Staying away from substance abuse, highlighting the dangers and legal consequences.
- Understanding the legal protections available under the Pocso Act, ensuring students are aware of their rights and safeguards.
SP Prassanna Kumar confirmed that the initiative will continue beyond February 14, indicating a long-term commitment to youth welfare. For those in need of immediate assistance, support is available through Tamil Nadu's health helpline at 104 and Sneha's suicide prevention helpline at 044-24640050.
