28.5c India
Following a recent custodial assault involving an Army officer and his fiancée in Odisha, the Indian Army established a special 24/7 helpline, 155306, to provide quick support to soldiers and veterans in emergencies.
This effort demonstrates the Army's dedication to its personnel's well-being and security in the face of increased concerns about attacks on military members.
The helpline is staffed by professional Military Police personnel, both men and women and allows soldiers and veterans to report assaults and other situations confidently.
Calls to 155306 will be recorded, allowing for timely follow-up and tracking of each case. The helpline is available nationwide, without prefixes, on significant telecom networks, ensuring comprehensive service.
When a call is received, the caller offers important service information and a description of the situation. The helpdesk then coordinates with the nearest Provost Police unit to ensure timely intervention. This method is intended for actual crises and excludes land disputes or marital difficulties.
This attempt comes after the Army recently requested that the Odisha government expedite the inquiry into the September 14 attack in Bhubaneswar.
The episode, which the CID is investigating, has underlined the importance of improved support networks for military personnel across India.