Lucknow: In the immediate fallout of the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, doctors across the country are calling for a tighter policy framework to safeguard the modesty of womenfolk. As pressure grows, both at the state level and the national stage, those in positions of power are taking charge of the situation.
Babita Chauhan, a resident of Agra and member of BJP’s state executive committee, has been made the chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission, while BJP leader Aparna Yadav, daughter-in-law of late SP patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav and Charu Chaudhary of Gorakhpur have been made vice-chairpersons. Apart from this, 25 members have been appointed. The government issued an order in this regard earlier this week.
According to the order, the appointment of the chairperson, vice-chairperson and members has been made for one year and till the next decision of the government.
The appointed members include Himani Agarwal and Manisha Ahlawat from Meerut, Sunita Srivastava from Ballia, Anju Prajapati, Priyanka Maurya, Ritu Shahi and Ekta Singh from Lucknow, Poonam Dwivedi and Anita Gupta from Kanpur, Anupama Singh Lodhi from Jhansi, Sujita Kumari from Lakhimpur Kheri, Meena Kumari from Aligarh, Neelam Prabhat from Mirzapur, Geeta Bind from Jaunpur, Geeta Vishwakarma from Prayagraj, Pushpa Pandey from Bareilly, Meenakshi Bharaala from Meerut, Sunita Saini from Rampur, Archana Patel from Lalitpur and Janak Nandani from Sant Kabirnagar, Pratibha Kushwah from Kaushambi, Renu Gaur from Kasganj, Avni Singh and Sangeeta Jain Annu from Bijnor and Sapna Kashyap from Saharanpur.
Interestingly those who are tracking this story closely say that the government has kept caste balance in mind in the appointment of the chairman and members. Most emphasis has been given to Lucknow among the members.
It is known that the government has recently started the appointment process in the commissions that were vacant for the last two and a half years. Appointments have been made on all the posts in the Uttar Pradesh State Backward Classes Commission.
At times like these when crimes against women is a hot button topic, it is pertinent to mention that U.P. holds the number 1 position in the disposal of crimes related to women and girls. Reportedly officials of the Women and Child Protection Organization told Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in a high-level meeting that the ratio of disposal of crimes related to women in the state is 98.70 percent.
Meanwhile CM Yogi has directed officials to speed up the disposal of such cases so that 100 percent of the cases can be disposed of in receord time. Keeping this in mind the Chief Secretary and DGP hold a review meeting every month.
As per police sources – cases registered under rape and POCSO Act are being disposed of on priority basis. Siddharthnagar is at the first place in the disposal of cases. It is followed by Hardoi, Etawah, Etah, Noida Police Commissionerate, Sonbhadra, Mirzapur, Saharanpur, Mainpuri and Amethi.
Living up to the adage – prevention is better than cure, Uttar Pradesh has implemented several measures to address the issue of crimes against women.
Mission Shakti: This is a comprehensive program aimed at empowering women and ensuring their safety. It includes initiatives like women’s self-defense training, economic empowerment programs, and increased police presence in vulnerable areas.
Fast-track courts: Special courts have been established to expedite the trial of cases related to crimes against women, ensuring swift justice.
Anti-Romeo squads: These squads have been formed to curb harassment of women in public places.
Women’s helpline: A 24/7 women’s helpline is available for victims to report incidents and seek assistance.
Stricter laws: The state government has enacted stricter laws against sexual offenders, including the death penalty in certain cases.
Increased police presence: Police presence has been increased in areas with high crime rates, particularly at night.
Awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns have been launched to educate people about sexual violence and encourage them to report incidents.
It is also worth noting that increasing number of crimes against women has led to a shift in societal attitudes and behaviors.
Self-Defense Techniques
- Martial arts: Learning self-defense techniques like karate, taekwondo, or jiu-jitsu can empower women and give them the confidence to protect themselves.
- Self-defense classes: These classes offer practical tips and techniques to help women defend themselves in various situations.
Awareness and Vigilance
- Situational awareness: Being aware of surroundings and potential threats can help women identify potential dangers and take preventive measures.
- Trusting their instincts: If something feels off, women should trust their gut and avoid the situation.
- Avoiding isolated areas: Women should avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
Technology and Safety Apps
- Personal safety apps: Many apps offer features like SOS buttons, location tracking, and community alerts to help women stay safe.
- GPS tracking: Sharing location with trusted friends or family can provide a sense of security.
- Online communities: Joining online communities or support groups can provide valuable information and resources.
Social and Cultural Changes
- Challenging stereotypes: Challenging harmful gender stereotypes and promoting equality can help create a safer environment for women.
- Empowering women: Encouraging women to be independent and assertive can boost their confidence and resilience.
- Bystander intervention: Educating people about the importance of bystander intervention can help prevent and address harassment.
