New Delhi: In an initiative to boost confidence among women and instill a sense of fear among eve teasers, Delhi Police has launched a campaign in Delhi University where girls, trained in unarmed combat, will patrol crime-prone areas along with policewomen and catch anybody making nuisance.
"The campaign 'She to Shakti' was launched at the varsity's north campus. Girls will be patrolling in groups of 20 each. They have also been given especially designed khaki jackets with 'Shakti' written upon it," Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Madhur Verma told PTI.
"It was observed that women, if given a chance and a systematic platform, were willing to join hands with law enforcement machinery to contribute towards women safety," he said.
Verma said therefore, to put an effective check on crime against women, including eve-teasing, near sensitive areas like girls' hostel, metro stations, bus stands, market places, crime-prone areas and several places in north campus, North district of Delhi Police has started a drive to gather willing volunteers to aid police in effectively checking crime against women.
These volunteers were then trained in basic unarmed combat techniques, legal rights and powers and provisions for the safety of women in law, he said, adding that thereafter, they were divided in groups, given a distinct jacket to wear and aided by one or two police personnel.
"After this, they have been tasked to patrol areas where eve teasing and safety issues for women are a concern. Their mere presence sends ruffians, eve teasers, scurrying for cover," Verma said.
This has not just created awareness and a zero tolerance spirit among women in North district, but also generated tremendous support from the society, he said.
"Everyday, dozens of students from Delhi University and nearby areas are registering themselves with us to participate in this programme," said Verma, adding "It is a revolution of the women, by the women, for the women. The support 'she to Shakti' is generating from society seems to prove it".
Delhi Police has vowed to train one lakh women in self-defence by the end of this year to make them strong enough to fight back in case of any unpleasant situation.
