Kolkata, 02 July (H.S.): In a major push to strengthen law and order and enhance women's safety, the West Bengal government on Thursday announced a series of key initiatives, including the launch of Cyber Crime Help Desks in every police station and the formation of 'Durga Suraksha Squads' in every subdivision. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari inaugurated the statewide programme from Nabanna.
The Chief Minister said dedicated Cyber Crime Help Desks will now function in all police stations to tackle the growing menace of cyber fraud. He also announced that a senior officer of the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADG) or Inspector General of Police (IG) will be appointed to oversee cyber policing across the state. The officer will coordinate with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and supervise all cyber police stations and help desks. The government also plans to equip the cyber wing with modern technology and necessary logistical support.
Highlighting the rise in financial fraud, fake messages leading to unauthorized bank transactions, and cases of so-called digital arrest, Adhikari said the state would work closely with the Central Government to formulate a comprehensive strategy to combat cybercrime.
To strengthen women's safety, the government has decided to establish Women's Help Desks in 500 police stations in the first phase. These help desks will be staffed by trained women police personnel to ensure that women can report crimes without hesitation. In addition, 'Durga Suraksha Squads' will be constituted in every subdivision to focus specifically on women's safety and security.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need to improve emergency police response. He noted that in states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, police reach the scene within an average of 6 minutes after an emergency call, whereas the average response time in West Bengal is around 3 hours. To reduce this gap, the government will increase the number of vehicles under the 112 emergency response service in the next state budget to ensure faster police assistance across the state.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
