Taking note of its success in acting as peacemaker between warring couples, the Mumbai police plan to start six more centres in the city.
Currently, the social service branch (SSB) of the Mumbai police has counselling centres at the police headquarters at Crawford Market, Dadar, Kandivli, Kurla, Vikhroli and Vakola.
The police plan to start six new centres at DB Marg, Wadala, Dharavi, Bhandup, Sakinaka and Malwani.
While the programme was started in 2011, it was named Samvaad Tuja Maja in 2012. Counselling is provided on the basis of the analysis of post-separation experiences of the couple.
The police have a compilation of the hardships that couples go through after a divorce. Findings of various studies show that children are the worst affected.
According to officials, the fight for custody results in prolonged battles, leading to psychological problems or in some cases, even violent tendencies in children.
Apart from common man, the programme will also try to help families of police personnel.
“The long uncertain hours of policemen because of investigation and bandobast often lead to family problems. At times, the issue is also linked to bad habits and addictions,” said an official, requesting anonymity.
Feroze Patel, assistant commissioner of police, said, “Most staff members are experienced in tackling such cases. Whenever an application for counselling is made, they try to scrutinise it and schedule a meeting with the couple at the earliest.”
{{/usCountry}}Feroze Patel, assistant commissioner of police, said, “Most staff members are experienced in tackling such cases. Whenever an application for counselling is made, they try to scrutinise it and schedule a meeting with the couple at the earliest.”
{{/usCountry}}