Kerala Police replace PRO system with citizen help desks at all stations
The new integrated Citizen Help Desks will serve as a single point of contact for the public to access various police services.
The Kerala Police have replaced the existing Public Relations Officer system with integrated Citizen Help Desks at all police stations, according to a Hindustan Times report on Saturday.
These desks will act as a single point of contact for individuals visiting stations to lodge complaints, seek information, or use digital services. They will also handle the submission of complaints and the issuance of acknowledgements.
The help desks will provide specific assistance to women, children, and their parents, while ensuring priority service for senior citizens. Transgender persons and people with disabilities will also receive dedicated support and accessible services.
Services at the desks include assistance with cybercrime reports, online fraud, and the 1930 toll-free helpline. They will also help with applications for No Objection Certificates, Accident General Diary entries, and Right to Information Act requests.
Officials stated that the desks will provide fundamental legal guidance and refer visitors to legal aid centres when required. They will also provide details regarding various online services offered by the Kerala Police.
Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan criticised the move in a Facebook post on Friday. The former chief minister argued that the change could make it harder for citizens to approach the police and might reduce necessary human interaction.