NEW DELHI: To enhance the safety of women in the national capital, Delhi Police is gearing up to launch Anti-Eve-Teasing squads in every district. These squads, as outlined in a recent circular issued by Delhi Police, will consist of 15 trained personnel in each district. Their primary focus will be not only to respond to incidents of harassment but also to proactively work towards prevention and intervention.
The District Police Deputy Commissioners (DCPs) will play a crucial role in identifying hotspots and vulnerable areas that pose a threat to women’s safety. These areas will be shared with the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC) for collaboration, as per the official circular.
The teams will be organized by the Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) from the Women Crime (W) units and approved weekly by the DCP SPUWAC. Their duties will include regular patrols of vulnerable areas, conducting drives on public transport, and focusing on at least two vulnerable points daily. This systematic approach aims to ensure comprehensive coverage of all areas within their jurisdiction.
Female police officers will be deployed in plain clothes to identify and prevent potential criminals. The squads will prioritize victim safety and collaborate with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Market Welfare Associations (MWAs), and local volunteers to enhance vigilance and identify additional vulnerable areas. This collaborative effort aims to shield survivors from public scrutiny.
It is imperative that team members remain sensitive and empathetic, as emphasized in the circular. The focus should be on enforcing the law rather than imposing personal or cultural morality on individuals.
By adhering to these guidelines, the Anti-Eve-Teasing squads in Delhi will contribute to creating a safer environment for women in the city.