Gurgaon Police Introduces Digital Saheli: A Lifeline for Women Facing Cyber Crimes
In a significant move to combat the rising tide of digital abuse, Gurgaon Police has launched Digital Saheli, a special rapid response cell dedicated to addressing cyber crimes against women. This initiative, inaugurated on Friday, aims to provide immediate assistance to victims of deepfake misuse, sextortion, and the circulation of morphed or objectionable photos and videos on social media platforms.
A Dedicated Helpline for Swift Action
Women facing any form of cyber crime can now seek help "without fear or hesitation" by calling the dedicated helpline number 9999981002. The Digital Saheli cell will operate round the clock with a team of eight women police personnel, ensuring that victims can report incidents from the safety of their homes. According to police officials, the cell was created to "provide immediate assistance to women facing cyber crimes" and strengthen women's safety in the digital realm.
Confidential Reporting and Comprehensive Support
Police spokesperson Sandeep Turan emphasized that "the identity of victims and complainants will be kept strictly confidential." The platform is designed to offer a secure and accountable digital reporting mechanism. In cases where a victim does not wish to file an FIR, she can still reach out to Digital Saheli. Cyber Crime ACP Priyanshu Dewan stated, "The dedicated team will ensure action within 24 hours by getting the objectionable content removed from the concerned social media platforms."
Beyond legal assistance, the cell will provide counselling, mental healthcare, and emotional support to help victims recover from the trauma associated with online exploitation. This holistic approach underscores the message that women facing digital abuse are not alone and can access immediate "help, safety, and justice."
Collaboration and Enhanced Infrastructure
The Digital Saheli initiative was inaugurated by Commissioner of Police Vikas Kumar Arora at the Women Police Station in Sector 51. It has been set up in collaboration with the private foundation Reet. Additionally, other services of the local police, including information related to Digital Saheli, can be accessed through the department's chatbot number, +91 95999 64777.
In a related development, the police station has been revamped with the development of a rain garden and the cleaning and repair of a previously installed rainwater harvesting system, reflecting a broader commitment to community welfare and environmental sustainability.
Empowering Women in the Digital Age
The launch of Digital Saheli marks a proactive step by Gurgaon Police to address the growing challenges of cyber crimes targeting women. By offering a confidential helpline, rapid content removal, legal proceedings, and psychological support, this initiative aims to empower women to combat digital exploitation effectively. As cyber threats evolve, such measures are crucial in ensuring that victims have the resources and support needed to navigate these complex issues and seek justice without fear.
