In a significant move to enhance public safety, the Karnataka government has rolled out a novel initiative named the Akka Pade scheme in the district of Kalaburagi. This program is specifically designed to offer immediate protection and support to girls, women, and children in public spaces, addressing issues of harassment, abuse, and exploitation.
How the Akka Pade Initiative Operates
Speaking to TOI, Kalaburagi SP Aduru Srinivasalu detailed the workings of the scheme. The core of the initiative involves dedicated teams conducting proactive visits to sensitive locations. These include schools, colleges, hostels, parks, and other public areas where women and children might be vulnerable.
The operational backbone of the scheme is a Mahindra Bolero vehicle, provided by the government, which allows the teams to patrol effectively. The vehicle operates in two shifts: from 7 am to 2 pm and 2 pm to 8 pm. While cases can be reported directly to local police stations, the Akka Pade team will work in close coordination with law enforcement to ensure swift and decisive action is taken on every complaint.
Beyond Intervention: Awareness and Empowerment
The Akka Pade scheme is not merely a reactive measure. A major component focuses on preventive awareness campaigns. The teams will educate the public on critical issues and legal provisions, including:
- The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act
- The evils of child marriage and child labour
- Human trafficking and drug abuse
- Importance of traffic rules
Furthermore, the initiative will publicize crucial free helpline numbers such as 1098 (Childline), 181 (Women's Helpline), and the emergency number 112.
Rollout and Coordination in Kalaburagi
For the launch in Kalaburagi, staff from the women and child development department in Bengaluru delivered the designated vehicle, which commenced operations immediately. The formation of the teams is a structured process. Committee members will provide lists of institutions to be covered.
Five women homeguards along with women police personnel will receive special training to form the teams as per the Akka Pade guidelines. To ensure seamless implementation, SP Srinivasalu convened a meeting with the committee members responsible for training and guidance.
This coordination meeting saw participation from officials across multiple departments, including public instruction, pre-university and college education, social welfare, backward classes welfare, the district children's accounts officer, and a homeguard trainer.
The launch of the Akka Pade scheme marks a concrete step by the Karnataka government towards creating safer public environments. By combining vigilant patrolling, rapid response, and widespread awareness, it aims to not only protect but also empower women and children across Kalaburagi district.
