Delhi Police to launch 'Shishtachar squads' to tackle eve-teasing across city

NEW DELHI: In a bid to enhance women's safety in the national capital, Delhi Police is set to roll out "anti-eve-teasing" or 'Shishtachar squads' in all districts. These specialized teams will not only respond to harassment cases but also work proactively to prevent such incidents, according to an official circular issued by the force.

Each district will have a squad of 15 trained personnel, tasked with identifying and patrolling vulnerable areas, including public transport hubs, marketplaces, and educational institutions. District deputy commissioners of police (DCsP) have been directed to map out hotspots and high-risk zones and share their findings with the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC).

Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACP), Crime Against Women (CAW) Units, will oversee the weekly deployment of these squads, ensuring they conduct surprise checks and regular patrols at key locations.

A key aspect of the initiative is the deployment of plainclothes female officers to blend into crowded areas and discreetly identify offenders. The initiative will also encourage collaboration with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Market Welfare Associations (MWAs), and local volunteers to boost vigilance and expand the network of safe zones for women.

The circular emphasizes that officers must act with sensitivity and empathy, ensuring that survivors of harassment are not subjected to public scrutiny. "The squad must focus on enforcing the law rather than imposing personal or cultural morality on individuals," it states.