Female Kanwar Pilgrims: CM Yogi ensures highest-ever women-centric security model for Sawan Kanwar Yatra; 24×7 helpdesks, patrol boosts, and counseling desks in place
Lucknow – In a major push to ensure the safety and dignity of women devotees participating in the Sawan Kanwar Yatra, the Uttar Pradesh government has deployed over 10,000 women police personnel across the state. This marks the highest-ever deployment of female officers during a religious pilgrimage in India, reflecting the Yogi government’s focused effort on women-centric public safety.
The deployment includes 8,541 women constables and 1,486 women sub-inspectors, along with the establishment of over 150 women-only help desks across key pilgrimage routes. The move comes in anticipation of 60 to 70 lakh women pilgrims expected among the estimated 6 crore Kanwar devotees traveling through the state.
Women Helpdesks and Shakti Booths to Provide 24×7 Assistance
Following a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the police administration was directed to implement a comprehensive security framework for women pilgrims. As part of this, women constables will be posted at all helpdesks to not only offer logistical assistance but also provide counseling in sensitive cases.
Additionally, with the support of local women-led volunteer organizations, the government has introduced Shakti Help Booths in several districts. These booths, staffed by trained women, aim to empower female devotees and ensure that help is available whenever needed.
Women police personnel will also be on call through 24×7 helpline numbers, and the Quick Response Teams (QRTs) operating along the pilgrimage routes have been mandated to include female officers, especially during nighttime patrols.
Special Security Zones and Digital Surveillance
To ensure seamless coordination, the state has been divided into 11 security zones, each with its own dedicated control room. These centers are monitored round-the-clock, and staffed by women police personnel.
Among the most heavily guarded zones is Meerut, where over 3,200 women officers have been deployed. This includes active presence in Muzaffarnagar, Baghpat, Hapur, and Ghaziabad, key districts that see dense Kanwar movement.
In addition to physical deployment, the state is using drones, CCTV cameras, and social media surveillance to enhance situational awareness and rapid response capabilities.
Building Confidence Through Visible Policing
The Uttar Pradesh Police has highlighted that the visible presence of women officers is already creating a positive impact, with many women pilgrims expressing greater confidence and a sense of security during the yatra.
“This is not just about policing—it’s about empowering women to participate in religious and cultural life without fear,” a senior police official stated. “The government’s proactive model is aimed at setting a new standard for public safety during mass events.”
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that the Kanwar Yatra is not just a religious event but a reflection of public faith and state responsibility. “No woman should hesitate to undertake this journey out of fear. It is our duty to make it safe, inclusive, and respectful for all,” he said.
