Chandigarh, March 21
With the objective of effectively curbing cybercrime, threatening calls, and extortion incidents, Haryana Police has launched the ‘Abhedya’ mobile app. This is the first mobile-based security platform of its kind in the country, which will help protect citizens from suspicious calls, threatening messages, stalking, and digital harassment. With this initiative, Haryana has become the first state in the country to introduce such a unique measure.
Strong action against extortion calls, policing strengthened through technological innovation
In this regard, Director General of Police (DGP) Haryana, Mr. Ajay Singhal, while addressing a press conference held today at Police Headquarters, Sector-6, Panchkula, shared detailed information about the features and functioning of the ‘Abhedya’ app. Additional Director General of Police and Commissioner of Police Panchkula, Shibash Kabiraj, and DCP Panchkula Srishti Gupta were also present on the occasion.
He stated that in changing times, criminals are using internet-based calling, fake numbers, and digital platforms to intimidate and defraud people. In such a scenario, this app will act as a strong protective shield for citizens. Mr. Singhal said that upon assuming office, he initiated a well-planned strategy to effectively curb extortion calls. He clarified that strict and clear directions had been issued in this regard by Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Nayab Singh Saini under a “zero tolerance” policy, in line with which concrete steps have been taken by the police.
He added that through this mobile app, doctors, contractors, traders, and common citizens will receive wide-ranging protection and relief.
He further stated unequivocally that anyone attempting to create an atmosphere of fear and terror will be treated as a terrorist and strict action will be taken against them. Mr. Singhal explained that calls originating within the country are relatively easier to trace, whereas calls from foreign numbers pose a significant technical challenge. To tackle this challenge, technical experts of Haryana Police worked tirelessly to develop a robust solution, which has now been launched after successful testing.
He expressed pride in stating that this is a completely in-house initiative of Haryana Police, showcasing their technical capability and innovation. He informed that the app was tested by 25 selected users and was found to be fully effective. Further improvements and updates will be made as required in the future.
Access to the mobile app through the Superintendent of Police
To download the app, interested individuals will have to contact the Superintendent of Police of their respective district, after which authorized access will be provided. The app will be available on both Android and Apple platforms.
Mr. Singhal also stated that due to the proactive actions of Haryana Police, there has been approximately a 40% reduction in extortion calls and an 8% reduction in overall crime during January and February 2026 compared to the previous year. He expressed confidence that the launch of this app will help establish effective control over digital fraud, cybercrime, and extortion calls.
Functioning of the app
The ‘Abhedya’ app identifies calls and messages from unknown and suspicious numbers and blocks them before they reach the user. It specifically monitors international, virtual, and unsaved numbers and automatically rejects calls and blocks numbers if found suspicious.
The app also deletes suspicious chats, voice messages, notifications, and voice notes from the device, ensuring that users remain free from any mental stress or fear. Additionally, suspicious calls coming from abroad will also be monitored. While users remain protected from mental pressure, the person making suspicious calls will be traced by Haryana Police through backend systems.
Abhedya-2.0: A stronger security system
Information about ‘Abhedya-2.0’, the updated version of the app, was also shared during the press conference. Through this version, not only internet-based fraud calls but also regular calls can be controlled. It includes features to block unknown international calls, suspicious domestic calls (as per user preference), and private or hidden numbers, while allowing calls only from saved and verified numbers.
Direct benefits to citizens
This app will play a significant role in protecting citizens from threatening calls, extortion attempts, and cybercrime. It will curb anonymous communication channels used by criminals and make their identification and tracking easier for law enforcement agencies.
Strong strike against digital arrest: Dual OTP system to enhance security
Along with this, he informed that Haryana Police will soon implement a “Dual OTP System” to tackle emerging challenges like “digital arrest.” Under this initiative, work is being carried out in collaboration with officials of HDFC Bank, and in the initial phase, account holders aged 60 years or above will be included. Under this system, any OTP for financial transactions will be sent not only to the primary account holder but also to their family members—such as son, daughter, or any trusted individual. Transactions will be approved only after confirmation from both. Additionally, transaction limits for account holders will also be set to minimize the possibility of fraud.
Mr. Singhal stated that the implementation of this innovative system will effectively curb cybercrimes like “digital arrest.” He further informed that a detailed framework is being prepared in coordination with the Reserve Bank of India and various banks.
Commitment of Haryana Police
DGP Mr. Ajay Singhal stated that Haryana Police is committed to tracing every criminal and bringing them within the ambit of law. He appealed to citizens to make maximum use of the ‘Abhedya’ app and support the police in building a secure digital society. Haryana Police will continue to work tirelessly for public safety with its core motto of “Sewa, Suraksha, Sehyog.
