Noida Police to issue red cards to harassers and loiterers
In order to strengthen the anti-Romeo squads for protection of women in the city, Noida Police will now issue 'red cards' as a warning to men, who harass women verbally or non-verbally. The police will also be taking feedback from the residents to identify which all areas witness high chances of such an offence. Reportedly, the red card will be issued solely on suspicion.
Card highlights any derogatory comment towards women is an offence
Like for example, if a man is found loitering in an area, the anti-Romeo squad would question him. If he fails to give a satisfactory answer, a red card would be issued. The card highlights that any derogatory comment towards any woman is an offence, and can result in jail time. It's expected to serve "as a deterrent," said SP (Rural), GB Nagar.
Strict action will be taken against repeat offenders, says SP
"The person's details, including his address and contact number, will be noted in a register for future record. If the person is found committing an offence of this nature again, strict action will be taken," said Gautam Budh Nagar's Superintendent of Police (Rural), Vineet Jaiswal. "The card is aimed at serving as a deterrent to people who make women feel unsafe," he further added.
Feedback taken from girl students would help police map areas
"There are times when women are walking home from schools, coaching centres or colleges, and men hang around these areas to harass them," Jaiswal pointed out. And so, the police, on the basis of the feedback they receive from school and college students, will map those areas that are most prone to such activities. Police would also "ensure strict vigil" in the identified areas.
Patrolling team will be deployed in uniform and civil clothes
The patrolling team, to be deployed in the identified areas, will be both in uniform and civil clothes. They will comprise one sub-inspector, two male and female constables each. Notably, Jaiswal, earlier posted as Allahabad DSP, had carried out a similar activity there during the 2014 polls, and "the step proved to be fruitful, that's why I discussed it with my GB Nagar seniors."
UP CM recently instructed police to reactivate the anti-Romeo squads
This decision comes after UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a high-level meeting held earlier this month, instructed the police to reactivate the anti-Romeo squads. The meeting was held after the state recorded numerous crimes against minor girls in 1 week, which triggered national outrage. Yogi has also instructed the officials to keep suspects under surveillance and even intensify foot patrolling in rural areas.
