‘Women\'s safety is top priority for police’

Bengaluru city police have always given top priority to the safety of women. Various measures have been undertaken even in the past, whether it’s through initiatives like ‘Pink Hoysalas, or the starting of a dedicated wing for woman safety, which we have recently done in the Central Crime Bureau (CCB). Issues concerning women have always been a top priority.

The city is a technology hub and city police also have taken tech-savvy steps towards ensuring the safety of women by launching ‘Suraksha’ app, through which any woman in distress by just pressing a button can send her location to the control room. The nearest Hoysala will be sent immediately to attend the case.

And importantly, we are sensitising all our officers regarding the precautionary measures that need to be taken, like patrolling regularly in deserted areas. Also, whenever any complaint is given, they are told to act on it quickly without talking about jurisdiction. They cannot argue that the place of offense doesn't come under their jurisdiction.

There needs to be research on areas where such offenses are likely to occur. Things like proper lighting in certain dark spots by the civic authorities can help in preventing offenses against women. Many areas in the city have dark spots. Civic authorities should be geared up to scout for these places and ensure high mask lights across the city. The city police efforts to control drug abuse would also definitely have a positive impact on woman safety.

Sensitization programs for drivers of cabs, for physical education instructors, have also been taken up by the city police.

While there is no doubt that it is the responsibility of police to prevent crimes against women, and also ensure speedy justice, but without the active participation and cooperation of various stakeholders of society, we may not achieve the desired results.  What is worrisome is that juveniles are involved in some cases. As a society, we need to take note of this and try to understand why it happens in the first place. All stakeholders – the police,  parents, school managements, peer groups, the judiciary... all of us need to work together.

Our criminal jurisprudence works on the Deterrent Theory. So a quick investigation, charge sheet and speedy trial and conviction would definitely be a great deterrent for such offenders. Also, once the trial is completed, the appeal process should be disposed of on a priority basis.

I would like to assure all women that we, the Bengaluru city police have been taking and in future also will take elaborate steps for women safety and all ranks right from the level of constables and upwards have been sensitised regarding women safety.