Gujarat, one of India’s largest states, has long been at the forefront of creating policies and initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. With increasing concerns about safety, the Gujarat Police have launched several targeted programs and operations designed to ensure the well-being of these groups. Through awareness campaigns, special units, and collaborative efforts with community organizations, Gujarat Police have made significant strides in safeguarding women and children across the state.
Key Programs by Gujarat Police to Protect Women and Children
- The “Shakti” Program: Empowering Women Launched to empower women, the Shakti program focuses on preventing violence against women and providing support to victims. The initiative includes 24/7 helplines, women police stations, and awareness campaigns to ensure women have access to immediate help when needed. Through the program, women in distress are given direct access to police protection and counseling services.
- “Maa” Helpline for Children in Distress In an effort to protect children from abuse, trafficking, and exploitation, the Gujarat Police established the “Maa” helpline. This initiative focuses on providing children in distress with immediate assistance, whether it be for reporting abuse or receiving care after being rescued from difficult situations. Trained child welfare officers are available to provide guidance and support.
- Women and Child Protection Units (WCPU) The Gujarat Police have created dedicated Women and Child Protection Units to handle cases of domestic violence, child abuse, trafficking, and sexual assault. These units focus on providing a secure environment where victims can safely report their issues. The units also play an important role in investigating crimes and working with child care institutions and NGOs to ensure long-term protection.
- Self-Defense and Skill Development Training for Women In addition to legal protection, Gujarat Police have initiated self-defense programs for women and young girls. These programs not only teach women how to protect themselves but also aim to boost confidence and independence. The police collaborate with schools and NGOs to offer regular workshops on self-defense techniques, making these programs accessible to young women throughout the state.
- Suraksha (Safety) App for Women The Gujarat Police have introduced the Suraksha mobile app, which allows women to instantly alert authorities if they feel threatened or are in danger. By pressing a button on their smartphone, users can notify the nearest police station, sending their location and details of the emergency. The app helps ensure that police respond more quickly to emergency situations, particularly in remote areas.
