Steps taken for women's safety. 239 women help desks have been set up, with plans for an additional 150 desks
In a bid to bolster public safety and enhance security measures, the Haryana Police has recently taken significant strides in modernising its operations and expanding its emergency response capabilities. The integration of 33 ‘Durga Shakti’ vehicles into the Haryana 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) represents a substantial step forward in the state’s efforts to ensure swift and effective responses to emergencies. The deployment of these specialised vehicles is part of a broader modernization initiative by the Haryana State Jail Department.
Noteworthy among these efforts is the establishment of a petrol pump and CNG filling station at the Kurukshetra District Jail, achieved through collaboration with the Indian Oil Corporation. This development not only enhances operational efficiency but also underscores the department’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Chandigarh, March……- Haryana Police’s tagline is ‘Sewa Suraksha Sahyog,’ and its motto has always been public safety and people’s security.
Haryana Police emphasises training and sensitisation to address issues faced by marginalised communities. With a focus on safety for women, children, and the elderly, efforts include increased traffic duty deployment and swift action against crimes targeting vulnerable groups, fostering a sense of security and inclusion. Haryana Police Dial 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) has become a beacon of safety, integrating various services under one umbrella.
From medical emergencies to cyber threats and fire incidents, Haryana 112 stands as a beacon of swift and coordinated responses, ensuring the safety and security of residents across the state. In its continuous efforts to enhance service delivery, Haryana 112 has introduced innovative services such as the ‘Trip Monitoring Service’ and a dedicated ‘WhatsApp Platform,’ fostering efficient communication channels during emergencies.
Recognising the specific safety concerns of working women and girl students, the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) has streamlined its registration process, making it easier for individuals to register and access emergency services. All these initiatives aim to enhance safety and convenience for residents.
Steps for women’s safety
In a bid to address deeply rooted patriarchal norms, the Haryana government has initiated the establishment of women police stations, a unique step forward in the country. These stations, primarily staffed by female officers, focus on cases related to crimes against women, marking a significant social reform.
Furthermore, to provide immediate assistance to women residing in remote areas, 239 women help desks have been set up, with plans for an additional 150 desks. This initiative aims to cater to the needs of vulnerable women promptly. The state has also introduced dedicated helplines, employing specially trained female police officers to ensure swift police assistance for distressed women. Currently, the women’s helpline number 1091 has been integrated into Dial 112.
Apart from this, the implementation of the ‘Durga Shakti’ app and the deployment of anti-harassment squads in public spaces further bolster efforts towards women’s safety. For this purpose, 30 companies of ‘Durga Shakti Rapid Action Force’ along with 46 dedicated covert vehicles have been deployed across the state. Presently 33 ‘Durga Shakti’ vehicles have been integrated in Haryana 112. With legal aid programs, awareness campaigns, and self-defense training initiatives, Haryana is striving to create a safer environment and empower women to assert their rights.
Haryana Chief Minister
Haryana State Jail Department makes significant progress in modernization efforts
Furthermore, the Haryana State Jail Department has launched several ambitious projects aimed at improving security and facilities. As of January 1, 2024, a total of 25,863 prisoners were imprisoned in the state’s 3 central jails and 17 district jails. The department plans to enhance its capacity by establishing a High-Security Jail in Rohtak district, specifically constructed for 1000 dangerous prisoners. Land acquisition for new jails in the Charkhi Dadri and Fatehabad districts is also underway.
Apart from this, the government has approved the start of the first phase of construction of Correctional Compounds to aid with prisoner rehabilitation. The department adopted modern technology by introducing advanced security systems such as baggage scanners and metal detectors etc.
In view of the security in the jails, the latest security technology Towers Harmonious Call Blocking System (T-HCBC) Central Jail Ambala has been selected as a Pilot Project for setting up HCBC. Additionally, initiatives such as deploying sniffer dogs, and the installation of video conferencing systems for court appearances, show the department’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.
A petrol pump and CNG filling station has been installed and are operational at Kurukshetra District Jail, in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation. The pump’s average annual sales are at Rs 32 crore. Similarly, the government has approved the installation of petrol pumps in Haryana’s other eleven jails, including Ambala, Hisar-2, Yamunanagar, Bhiwani, Sirsa, Jind, Karnal, Sonipat, Faridabad, Nuh, and Narnaul.
A parliamentary standing committee on jails visited Haryana Jail and appreciated the jail reforms in Haryana Jail and special remarks were also given by the Chairman of the committee in visitors book.
