In News:

To enhance women's safety in public spaces, Delhi Police has launched district-wise Shishtachar Squads, a dedicated initiative to curb eve-teasing and harassment. The move comes in line with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s pre-poll promise and is inspired by Uttar Pradesh’s Anti-Romeo Squads.

Key Features:

• Purpose: To prevent, intervene, and assist in cases of sexual harassment against women in public areas.
• Deployment: 30 squads have been formed across Delhi, with at least two squads in each district.
• Composition: Each 12-member squad includes:
  • 1 Inspector (Head)
  • 1 Sub-Inspector
  • 4 Female Constables
  • 5 Male Constables
  • 1 Constable from the Anti-Auto Theft Squad (technical support)
• Supervision: Squads function under the ACP of the district's Crime Against Women (CAW) Cell.

Operational Strategy:

• Patrolling: Daily drives in at least two vulnerable spots identified by District DCPs.
• Surprise Checks: Plainclothes officers inspect public transport and engage with DTC staff, market associations, and RWAs.
• Victim-Centric Approach: Emphasis on sensitive handling of cases, ensuring swift action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (e.g., Sections 74 for molestation and 78 for stalking).
• Monitoring:
  • Weekly Reports by ACP-CAW submitted to the DCP of the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC).
  • Monthly Evaluations based on feedback from schools, RWAs, MWAs, and control rooms.