Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Chennai City Police Commissioner Dr. A. Amalraj, IPS, stated that the Chennai City Police’s ‘Kaval Karangal’ (Police Hands) help centre has been providing humanitarian services to the destitute, the homeless, and members of the public in need of emergency assistance for the past four years. Launched on April 21, 2021, the ‘Kaval Karangal’ help centre operates with the motto “Cherish Humanity, Uphold Compassion” via the 24-hour helpline number 94447 17100. Over the last four years, 10,298 homeless and destitute individuals have been rescued through this centre. Of these, 4,418 individuals have been placed in care homes and are being looked after, while 4,257 have been reunited with their families. Additionally, 1,114 individuals suffering from mental health issues were sent to psychiatric hospitals for treatment, and 509 are currently receiving treatment at government hospitals. Dignified final rites were performed for 7,017 unclaimed bodies. The police also reported that 516,349 food packets, collected with the cooperation of donors, were distributed to the destitute in care homes using the ‘Kaval Karangal’ food vehicle. Following this, under the guidance of Chennai City Police Commissioner Dr. A. Amalraj, IPS, and Additional Commissioner of Police (North) Kapil Kumar C. Saratkar, IPS… Under their direct supervision, a consultation meeting was held on July 11, 2026, at the Vepery Police Commissionerate conference hall with the NGOs and volunteers collaborating with the ‘Kaval Karangal’ (Police Hands) assistance center. During the meeting, detailed discussions took place regarding the operations of the ‘Kaval Karangal’ initiative, ways to further enhance its services, and the feedback and requirements of the volunteers. Additionally, essential items for rescue operations—including rescue equipment and clothing—were provided for the use of approximately 200 volunteers. Overcoats bearing the ‘Kaval Karangal’ logo were also distributed to them. Speaking at the event, Police Commissioner A. Amalraj and Additional Commissioner of Police Kapil Kumar C. Saratkar commended the volunteers for their humanitarian service and expressed their best wishes for them to continue providing excellent service to the public in collaboration with the police force. Approximately 160 volunteers, along with the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Modern Police Control Room), the Inspector of Police (‘Kaval Karangal’ assistance center), and other police officials, participated in the event.
Our Citizen Reporter – Chennai
Mohammed Moosa
