DCPCR helpline gets nearly 19k calls in six days

DCPCR's helpline for parents and children has received nearly 19,000 calls within six days, with a majority of them pertaining to procurement of ration and medicine during the lockdown period, according to data shared by the child rights body.

The other major reason for distress were financial concern and uncertainty about the future.

The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) had launched the helpline number 011-41182977 last week to help children and parents cope with anxiety during the period.

Within a week of its launch, the helpline had received 18,900 calls till Monday evening, according to data.

On Monday alone, the helpline received 7,900 calls. Buoyed by the response, there are plans to strengthen the helpline by roping in more counsellers.

Delhi Minister for Women and Child Development Rajendra Pal Gautam told PTI, "We are planning to rope in more experts. People are getting a platform to talk about their issues and we are addressing them. People have benefitted from them."