Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has ordered a 24-hour helpdesk for the security of women with a toll free helpline number ‘181’.
He gave the instruction to senior officers while reviewing the implementation of recommendations of a committee of IAS and IPS officers on women’s issues at the Secretariat. Chief Secretary Rajiv Sharma, Director General of Police Anurag Sharma, Commissioners of Police of Hyderabad and Cyberabad and members of the committee led by Principal Secretary Poonam Malakodaiah were present.
A release said Mr. Rao asked officials to take steps to introduce women operated `She’ autorickshaws and taxis in Hyderabad and other towns. Women drivers will be given vehicles at 50 per cent subsidy.
The police officials brought to the notice of the Chief Minister that eve teasing was high at Kothi, Mehdipatnam, Secunderabad railway station and other places in Hyderabad. A number of eve teasers were identified and they were regularly counselled. A dossier about them was maintained by taking their photographs and fingerprints. Letters about their activity were also written to their parents and college managements.
Mr. Rao asked officials to install closed circuit cameras at the three places identified by them and other crowded areas. The front door in RTC buses should be restricted to women. A slider should be installed for the conductors to move back and forth in the buses.
He wanted 33 per cent reservation for women at all levels in police and a women’s wing in every police station. Fast track courts will be established to deal with crimes against women in districts. Mr Rao felt the need to enhance the monthly allowance for girls and women sent to rescue homes from the present Rs. 750.
