Chandigarh, July 2 -- In a move to safeguard runaway couples from threats to their life and liberty, Chandigarh Police have operationalised a dedicated special cell under the Anti Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) for their protection. The cell, located at the home guards building in Sector 17, has been activated as per the directions of the Punjab and Haryana high court.

To streamline the process of offering immediate support to such couples-often vulnerable due to social, familial or community backlash-the police have released a detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The superintendent of police (city) has been designated as the state nodal officer to oversee the implementation of the SOP. At the grassroots level, station house of...