Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi placed a strong emphasis on women’s security, stating his government’s determined efforts to protect women in the state with “zero tolerance on women safety.”
While addressing Independence Day Parade here on 15 August, Chief Minister Shri Majhi said the State Administration has undertaken significant measures to ensure a safe environment for women and girls.
These efforts include:
Strengthened Patrolling: The Chief Minister has directed the police to enhance patrolling systems, particularly around schools and colleges, to ensure the safety of students.
Decisive Action: Police officers have been instructed to be in “action mode” at all times and to take decisive action in women-related cases.
Specialized Initiatives: The state government has launched the ‘Shaktishree’ initiative to ensure the safety and empowerment of women in higher education campuses. The program includes the creation of “Shaktishree Empowerment Cells” in institutions, the launch of a mobile app for anonymous complaints, and the establishment of a mandatory code of conduct.
‘Pink Zones’: As part of the state’s “Vision-2036 & 2047,” the government plans to establish “pink zones” in urban areas, which will feature sophisticated CCTV surveillance, specialized assistance counters, and continuous monitoring systems to provide swift support to women in distress.
Increased Representation: The vision document also outlines a plan to increase women’s representation in the state police force from the current 9% to 15% by 2029, 30% by 2036, and 50% by 2047. A specialized “women safety cadre” will be established to oversee all safety-related programs.
Digital Security: The government is also addressing digital harassment and cyberbullying with initiatives like cyber awareness programs and the creation of a “women cyber security taskforce” to handle complaints and ensure quick prosecution.
In his speech, Chief Minister Shri Majhi skillfully weaves together a narrative of historical pride, national security, and an ambitious vision for Odisha’s future, all while underscoring a core commitment to the safety and well-being of the state’s women.