Delhi To Get 'Anti-Romeo Squad' to Tackle Eve-Teasing, Ensure Women’s Safety

New Delhi: In a bid to curb harassment in public spaces, Delhi Police has introduced a specialized squad, ‘Shishtachar,’ to tackle eve-teasing and ensure women’s safety. At least 30 teams have been deployed across the city, focusing on high-risk areas where such incidents are frequently reported. 

The initiative aims to provide immediate intervention, create awareness, and strengthen security measures in public places.  

Election Promise Translates Into Action

The move aligns with the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) commitment to women’s safety, as promised in the Delhi Assembly election manifesto. 

Similar to Uttar Pradesh’s ‘Anti-Romeo’ squads, which were launched in 2017, this initiative seeks to establish a more secure environment for women in public spaces.  

Strategic Patrolling and Immediate Response

According to a directive issued by the Delhi Police Commissioner, each squad consists of both male and female officers who will patrol areas identified as harassment hotspots. 

These teams will not only respond swiftly to complaints but also conduct awareness drives to educate the public about legal provisions against harassment.  

The squads will focus on proactive policing without imposing moral policing, ensuring that victims are not subjected to unnecessary scrutiny or embarrassment. 

Officials have been instructed to handle cases with sensitivity and take swift legal action under relevant laws.  

Structure and Deployment Strategy 

Each squad comprises an inspector, a sub-inspector, four female officers, five male officers, and a technical expert from the Anti-Auto Theft Squad. 

Equipped with both four-wheelers and two-wheelers, the teams will conduct regular patrols to ensure quick response times.  

District Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) have been directed to map out vulnerable areas and plan the deployment of these squads accordingly. Weekly schedules will be reviewed and approved by the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC) to optimize coverage.  

Undercover Operations and Public Transport Monitoring

To identify offenders discreetly, plainclothes female officers will be stationed in key locations, including public transport systems. Surprise checks will be conducted in buses and metro stations in coordination with Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staff to encourage victims to report harassment.  

Community Involvement and Awareness Campaigns

Beyond enforcement, the initiative also emphasizes community participation. Delhi Police will work closely with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Market Welfare Associations (MWAs), and local volunteers to strengthen vigilance in high-risk zones. 

Monitoring and Training

The effectiveness of ‘Shishtachar’ squads will be regularly assessed. ACPs of the Crime Against Women (CAW) unit in each district will submit weekly reports detailing squad activities and actions taken. 

These reports will be compiled and evaluated by senior officials, with monthly reviews based on feedback from schools, colleges, RWAs, and emergency calls.  

To enhance preparedness, Delhi Police Academy has introduced specialized training programs for all personnel involved. 

District DCPs have been tasked with ensuring that squad members are well-trained, empathetic, and capable of handling cases sensitively.  

With ‘Shishtachar,’ Delhi Police aims to create a safer urban environment where women can move freely without fear of harassment.