In a significant demonstration of its proactive approach, the Shakti Suraksha Dal, a special women-safety unit launched by the Patna Police, has reported an overwhelming response from the public. In the month of November alone, the initiative received close to 1,909 distress calls from girls and women across the capital city of Bihar.
A Multifaceted Response to Distress
City SP (Central) Diksha, providing details on Tuesday, outlined the diverse actions taken by the dedicated teams. Out of the numerous calls, 62 girls received immediate, on-the-spot counselling to address their concerns. Furthermore, 45 formal complaints were thoroughly investigated, leading to the initiation of legal proceedings. An additional 23 complaints were forwarded to the relevant police stations for necessary action, ensuring no plea for help went unaddressed.
SP Diksha emphasized that the helpline's scope extended beyond women-centric issues. "Apart from complaints related to women, other types of complaints were also received after which they were provided appropriate guidance. Even calls from outside Bihar were attended and guided appropriately," she stated, highlighting the unit's commitment to public service.
Beyond Policing: From Ambulances to Cybercrime
The role of the Shakti Suraksha Dal teams transcended traditional law enforcement on multiple occasions in November. The SP recounted two urgent incidents where patrolling vehicles were transformed into emergency ambulances. In one case, a badly injured husband and wife from a road accident near Marine Drive were rushed to Kurji Hospital in the team's vehicle, with their families promptly informed. On another afternoon, the team witnessed and immediately assisted two women knocked down by a speeding motorcycle on Atal Path, transporting them for medical treatment.
In a separate case showcasing their swift action against digital crimes, a terrified young woman contacted the team about a man blackmailing her with private photographs and videos. Within hours, the team located the accused, forced him to delete all compromising material from his phone in their presence, reassured the victim, and transferred the case to the cybercell for further legal action.
Grassroots Presence and Future Strategy
The initiative's effectiveness stems from its ground-level deployment. Two mobile teams, one covering eastern Patna and the other the western part, patrol daily around schools, colleges, coaching centres, markets, and busy public areas. Staffed by a mix of inspectors, sub-inspectors, female constables, and supporting officers, these teams are trained to listen, counsel, and act with both speed and sensitivity.
SP Diksha revealed that the teams are now actively identifying hotspots requiring increased police presence, particularly near educational institutions, markets, and hospitals. Based on this intelligence, the local police will enhance security by deploying personnel in civil clothes for discreet patrolling, further ensuring the safety of women and girls.
Launched in July this year under the guidance of the Patna SSP, the Shakti Suraksha Dal was created to give the highest priority to women's safety and empowerment. The statistics and anecdotes from November clearly illustrate its vital and expanding role in the community, handling everything from harassment and cybercrime to road accidents and lost children with consistent urgency and care.
