An all-women personnel 'Nirbhaya Squad' to be deployed at police stations in Mumbai
Police stations to get new 'Mobile-5' vehicles for patrolling
A circular issued by the Mumbai Police Commissioner, Hemant Nagrale on Tuesday read that a women's safety cell will be set up, in all areas that frequently complain of crimes against women. The safety cell will include a woman assistant inspector or sub-inspector, a woman constable, a male constable, and a driver, read reports. Additionally, patrolling would be intensified to ensure round-the-clock surveillance.
Besides girls hostels, children's shelter homes and orphanages, the police station will also chalk out areas that are more likely to fall under the crime radar. For this, the police officials are directed to identify isolated spots near slums, gardens, schools, colleges, theaters, and malls, where unlawful activities are usually prevalent. Once traced, the police has been directed to plan patrolling routes accordingly.
The Mumbai Police has also decided to equip each squad with the 'Mobile-5' vehicle to conduct patrols. As per reports, each station has a fixed number of 'mobile' patrolling vehicles at its disposal.
Mumbai Police to launch 'Saksham' counseling initiative
A counseling initiative, 'Saksham' by Mumbai Police is also on the cards, added reports. This programme will specially go live for the victims of sexual harassment or assault. The move aims to encourage the female folk to speak and report about crimes against them and in turn, help build a safer environment for other young girls and women in the city.
The Mumbai Police Commissioner also ordained the entire police force to ensure that no woman has to travel alone in the city late at night. Officers should help either escort women or arrange a safe vehicle for them, to their destination if they request so. The officials have also been asked to make a list of all senior citizens women living in their jurisdiction and visit them during patrolling to build a grievance redressal system.
103 women safety helpline number
The police order further listed the 103 helpline number, meant for women in distress. Besides, a 'Nirbhaya complaint box' will also be stationed at every school, college, and hostel where girls or women can put in their complaints.
Officials have been asked to maintain separate records of any person who has been accused of committing crimes against women, in the past 5 years. Such individuals must remain under the police's watch, the commissioner concluded.
