Helpline working well, asserts Delhi government

Contracts of all the workers running the Women in Distress (181) helpline have been renewed and the helpline is functioning properly, Delhi government said on Tuesday.

New Delhi: Contracts of all the workers running the Women in Distress (181) helpline, set up in the wake of the December 16 gang-rape, have been renewed and the helpline is functioning properly, Delhi government said on Tuesday.

Responding to some media reports that the helpline has either been shut down or facing closure, a press release issued by Delhi government today said, "The 181 helpline is working round the clock in an effective manner and the helpline gives support to the needy women by attending their calls and advising them for proper course." "Around 1,700 to 1,800 calls are being received on daily basis on this helpline. The government remains committed to the smooth functioning of 181 helpline for Women in Distress," the statement said. "The Lt Governor has taken a review of the helpline on February 21, and it was decided to continue the helpline in its present form and with the existing set up. "All personnel are on contractual appointment basis working in the Helpline and the contract has already been extended upto March 31, 2014," the statement said. "The office orders in this regard have been issued on February 25. Review of the Helpline is being done on a regular basis," it added.