Nagpur: With women’s safety emerging as a major concern amid incidents of harassment, stalking and crimes against women, the Nagpur Police are strengthening their field-level security network, stepping up patrolling and focusing on faster responses to distress calls. In an exclusive interaction with Nagpur Today, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rashmita Rao outlined the city’s policing strategy, the functioning of dedicated women safety squads and the department’s future plans to make public spaces safer for women.
Emphasising that women must be able to move freely in public places and return home safely even during late-night hours, Rao said the city police were actively working to ensure that women receive immediate assistance whenever they face harassment or feel threatened. She stressed that prompt intervention, effective patrolling and sensitive handling of complaints were central to the police approach.
Highlighting the department’s focus on speedy investigation, Rao revealed that in certain cases involving crimes against women, police had completed investigations and filed chargesheets within just 6 to 13 hours. The initiative reflects the emphasis being placed on swift legal action against offenders and ensuring that victims do not have to endure prolonged delays in the investigation process.
Durga Marshals keep eve-teasers and stalkers under watch
Speaking about the ‘Durga Marshal’ initiative launched in 2025, Rao said the dedicated unit comprises 14 women police personnel who patrol different parts of the city to monitor suspicious activities and prevent harassment of women.
The team specifically keeps watch on eve-teasers, stalkers and those indulging in objectionable behaviour towards women in public places. Its presence is intended to act as a deterrent against harassment while providing women with a more accessible and reassuring police presence.
Rao also highlighted the emergency response mechanism through Dial 112, stating that police personnel generally reach the spot within approximately five to six minutes after receiving a distress call. The quick response mechanism is particularly important for women facing harassment or threatening situations while travelling or returning home at night.
In a significant expansion of the women’s safety initiative, the Nagpur Police are planning to establish 12 women-led Nirbhaya squads under the initiative of Police Commissioner Vishwas Nangre Patil.
These specialised teams will focus on regular patrolling, monitoring vulnerable public spaces and strengthening security arrangements for women across the city. The objective is not merely to respond after an offence has occurred but also to prevent harassment through visible police presence and proactive intervention.
The proposed squads are expected to play an important role in building confidence among women, particularly those who travel for work, education or other activities during late hours.
Sensitive policing and a safe environment for complainants
Rao also stressed the importance of treating complaints by women with sensitivity and ensuring that police stations provide an atmosphere in which victims feel comfortable reporting offences without fear, hesitation or social pressure.
The interaction also touched upon broader concerns surrounding women’s rights, their sense of security and the patriarchal mindset that continues to influence attitudes towards women in society.
Underscoring the responsibility of the police in addressing these challenges, Rao highlighted the need for sustained enforcement, public awareness and a responsive policing system.
With the Durga Marshal unit already operational and 12 women-led Nirbhaya squads being planned, the Nagpur Police are looking to strengthen both preventive policing and emergency response mechanisms. The larger challenge, however, remains ensuring that women feel safe not just in the presence of police personnel but across every neighbourhood, street and public space in the city.
