Introduction of CHL /1098 Services

Childline Services is defined under section 2(25) in Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of  Children) Act, 2015 as a twenty-four hours emergency outreach service for children in crisis  which links them to emergency or long-term care and rehabilitation service. ‘1098’ is a  national toll free 24×7 helpline number dedicated for children in difficult situations.

The primary aim of Child Helpline Service is to support and assist any child who has fallen  out of the safety net to provide emergency and immediate response and connect the child to  existing long term services. This can range from providing medical, shelter, legal aid,  emotional support or guidance. Child Helpline therefore acts as a crucial link between children in  distress conditions and services available for their rehabilitation, restoration or social re integration. For children with different needs, who call in anytime, anywhere, and for  anything, it acts as a one-point contact which facilitates instant access to support, advice  and active intervention.

The Child Helpline in Assam has been operated in collaboration with state and district authorities and has been integrated with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Emergency Response Support System 112 (ERSS-112) as well as the 181 Women Helpline

All 35 districts of Assam are supported by a dedicated Child Helpline (CHL) Control Room located at Beltola, Guwahati, which is integrated with the 181 Women Helpline and functions as the Women and Child Development Control Room (WCD-CR). Additionally, there is a Child Help Desk at Paltan Bazar Railway Station in Guwahati. This comprehensive setup ensures that the Gateway to the Northeast is equipped to enhance child protection initiatives throughout the state.