Bandobust duty returns to haunt all-women police personnel

When the all-women police stations were made to report to designated Deputy Commissioner under the newly-created Crime against Women and Children (CAWC) wing in 2019, one of the assurances given to them was that they would not be called for bandobust duties. 

“We were told that only for the important functions that all-women police would be required for bandobust duty and it was strictly followed. And it really helped because we were able to focus better on children related offences including Pocso cases. Within two days after the all-women police stations were brought under law and order Deputy Commissioners, our strength was sought for bandobust on MGR’s death anniversary on Dec 24,” said an all-women police inspector on condition of anonymity. 

There have been instances when senior officials have asked AWPS personnel to close the station for the need of other duties. 

As per the present setup, all-women police inspectors should report to the range Assistant Commissioners for administrative matters like granting leaves, monitoring daily status reports, inspections and visits, while Deputy Commissioners will monitor the registration, investigation and trial of the cases. 

“Since the old system is back in place, it would be very difficult to complete the investigations in time. It is already hard to persuade the victims and their parents in Pocso cases to appear before the magistrate to record their statement. Now, if our strength is taken for bandobust, it will get tough again,” said another AWPS inspector. 

However, Avadi all-women police inspector Latha said the work would go on. “Earlier, we had to report to one official. Now, we will be monitored by an Assistant Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Joint Commissioner. The progress would be quicker,” she said.