Mysuru Introduces 'Akka Squad' for Enhanced Women and Children Safety
The Department of Women and Children Welfare in Mysuru has launched a new initiative called the 'Akka Squad'. This dedicated patrol service aims to provide immediate assistance to women and children in distress across the city and district.
Quick Response and Trained Personnel
The Akka Squad operates with trained personnel from various backgrounds. These include members from the police force, the National Cadet Corps, and home guards. The squad is specifically designed for quick response to emergency calls. Each team comprises eight to ten trained members who patrol in dedicated vehicles.
These vehicles are equipped with wireless communication devices to ensure efficient coordination. Members must respond immediately to distress calls. They handle issues such as eve-teasing, violence against women and children, and cybercrime. After visiting the spot, they report complaints to the jurisdictional police station.
Awareness and Community Engagement
Beyond emergency response, the Akka Squad focuses on spreading awareness. Officials state that the squad will educate the public about laws related to women and children. They will also cover safety measures and legal rights. The squad works closely with local communities to strengthen reporting and response mechanisms.
Regular awareness drives are conducted on important topics. These include the Pocso Act, child marriage, child labour, and trafficking. The squad also teaches the difference between good touch and bad touch to promote child safety.
Vigilance and Rehabilitation Efforts
The squad maintains a strong vigil around educational institutions and student hostels. This effort aims to curb incidents of eve-teasing. Additionally, the squad checks instances of women and children begging on the streets.
When individuals are rescued from trafficking, the Akka Squad initiates rehabilitation measures. This holistic approach ensures not only immediate rescue but also long-term support for victims.
Future Expansion Plans
Based on the impact observed at the district level, the department plans to extend the service. In the coming months, the Akka Squad will be introduced to towns and taluk headquarters. This expansion aims to replicate the success seen in Mysuru across a wider area.
B Basavaraju, deputy director of the Women and Child Welfare Department, shared details with the media. He confirmed that the department has purchased a dedicated patrol vehicle for the squad. This investment underscores the commitment to enhancing safety and support for vulnerable groups.
The launch of the Akka Squad represents a significant step forward in community safety. By combining patrols, awareness, and rehabilitation, Mysuru sets a proactive example for other regions to follow.
