Maharashtra Proposes Mini-Police Stations for Women and Children Post-Badlapur Case

The Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has proposed the creation of dedicated branches for women and children in every police station. This follows criticism over the delayed registration of the Badlapur sexual assault case. Chairperson Susieben Shah emphasized the need for specialized units during a Mumbai press conference.

In the wake of the Badlapur sexual assault case, the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) has called for the establishment of special branches or 'mini-police stations' dedicated to women and children within every police station in the state. This recommendation follows an alleged delay in registering the crime by local authorities.

During a press conference in Mumbai, Chairperson Susieben Shah detailed the proposal, noting that while current police stations have Women's Help Desks and Special Juvenile Police Units, these are not solely dedicated to women's and children's complaints. 'Officers in these units are often assigned other tasks, causing delays,' she explained.

Shah highlighted the need for dedicated units akin to Crime Branch units, which focus exclusively on investigating crimes. She criticized police in Badlapur for their 'controversial' handling of a recent sexual assault case, emphasizing the urgency of specialized training for officers. Under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the state plans to implement these changes swiftly, Shah added.

(With inputs from agencies.)