Voice for Rights-Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) today formally launched Jammu and Kashmir’s first helpline ‘Dial for Protection’, here at Amar Singh Club.Minister of Social Welfare-Sajjad Gani Lone was the chief guest on the occasion, while as Divisional Commissioner Jammu-MK Bhandari was the guest of honour.While unveiling the number-18001800304, minister for Social Welfare-Sajad Gani Lone said that it is indeed a great initiative and social work needs compassion.“It is a great pleasure to be here for the inauguration of this project. This particular NGO approached me and I found it very good initiative,” Lone said and added that involvement of NGOs in rectifying and fighting against social issues is indeed a good sign.He said that across the world people are suffering from human rights, especially child rights.“As our country grows economically, human rights violations are hampering its progress. It is an important step that NGOs are coming up with such projects,” he said and added that the biggest problem is selective definition of ‘wrong’.“A wrong is a wrong... be it in Delhi, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir or any part of the world. I am very happy that NGOs come up with very stringent and unambiguous definition of wrongs,” he said and added that being a part of social welfare department, he believe that such initiatives on the part of NGOs is much needed.Earlier, in her welcome address, Chairperson, Voice for Rights-Advocate Deepika Singh Rajawat welcomed the guests on the inaugural function.Giving details about the project, Deepika said that ‘Dial for Protection’ would start its work from Jammu province and eventually will venture into other parts of the State.
“As Jammu and Kashmir is believed to be the conflict ridden state, wherein conflict holds the prime position due to which social issues including general human rights violations remained unattended,” she said and added this helpline would help to highlight issues pertaining to the human rights violations and will save/help victims from getting further victimized by providing them timely legal and other assistance.Congratulating the team of voice for rights, Divisional Commissioner Jammu-MK Bhandari assured complete support from the administration. “Voice for Rights shall play a role of bridge in filling the gaps between victim and administration,” he said and appreciated the initiative.In this regard, registrar Jammu University, Keshav Sharma said that such initiatives bring substantial and constructive change in the society. “I congratulate the team of Voice for Rights for taking such a noble initiative,” he said.Advocate, Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed-Trustee Voice for Rights, said he is thankful to all for sparing time for this event.“The way Sajad Sahib expressed his views regarding human rights and role of NGOs in fighting such issues shows the seriousness of the government,” he said.Compeering was done by Sonakshi. Others present on the occasion included SP HQ-RC Kotwal, BJP district president-Baldev, PDP leader-Amrik Singh Reen, Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association president-Sr Advocate BS Salathia, Ranbir Singh (founder member PDP), Harjeet Singh Bali, Avinash Gupta, Kailash, major Harnam Singh-joint Chairman Sainik Cooperative House building society and Gurvinder Singh. (KNS)