Delhi Police trains squads to combat public harassment

New anti-harassment squads called "Shishtachar" have been formed by the Delhi Police to protect women in public spaces. These squads began their operations shortly after a training session attended by around 350 officers. The officers were instructed to perform random checks on buses and in markets, asking women if they are facing harassment. During the training, officials emphasized respectful engagement. Officers were told not to lecture women about their clothing or behavior and to avoid targeting couples in public areas like parks. They are encouraged to take immediate action if harassment occurs. Assistant Commissioner of Police Yogesh Malhotra highlighted the importance of approaching women directly. He advised officers to visit schools and colleges in plain clothes, speaking to girls about their safety. Officers will be deployed in pairs across police districts, including both male and female personnel. The training was conducted by various police officials, including a retired deputy police commissioner. Officers were also told not to engage in moral policing and to offer help to women, even if they do not wish to file a formal complaint. The squads will identify areas where harassment is common and take proactive measures. Officers will create a database of repeat offenders to improve their response to such cases. Past initiatives by Delhi Police, such as women's booths and all-women police teams, did not have the desired effect, but this new approach involves directly reaching out to women for better results.