Bengaluru was once infamous for its underworld. Since then, several police officers have ensured that citizens do not live in fear anymore. Still, there exist many elements in society that threaten the normal lives of the common man. In order to deal with such issues related to hooliganism, a helpline was exclusively made available. But the calls that flow in are related to rather petty matters such as illicit relationships, fights between couples etc.

This helpline was set up by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) to curb activities by anti-social elements. CCB, taking a cue from its experience, has now planned to switch to a four-digit helpline that will help narrow down and focus on the issues they intend to address.

The number 9480801555 was launched a week ago. IGP for Northern Range Alok Kumar has been transferred back to Bangalore as the Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime). Alok Kumar has a good reputation in public for fighting the menace of rowdyism. A video went viral last week where Alok Kumar was seen giving warnings to rowdy sheeters in public.

The helpline has been getting about 70 calls on a daily basis, out of which less than two calls actually relate to the issue in hand. Deccan Herald quoted DCP S Girish as saying, “People involved in minor quarrels call up to complain that the other party threatened them. Even then, we attend to genuine cases. The less serious ones are sent to jurisdictional police. Calls from outside Bengaluru have become another problem,” he said.