Police Introduce "Pink Patrol" in Kalimpong to Bolster Women's Safety

KalimNews, September 16, 2024, Kalimpong : In a significant move to bolster women’s safety and security, the Kalimpong District Police has launched the “Pink Patrol” initiative today. The event was held at Thana Dara and was graced by key figures including Shrihari Pandey, Superintendent of Police; Balasubramanian T, District Magistrate; Purnima Sherpa, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP); Bhanu Rai, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) HQ; Kalyan Gurung, DSP DEB; Subhankar De, Inspector in Charge (ICP) Kalimpong; and other District Intelligence Officers (DIOs) of Kalimpong Police.

The "Pink Patrol" initiative was inaugurated with a ceremonial green flag, marking the beginning of patrols aimed at increasing confidence among women in the community. This initiative introduces pink patrolling vans that will traverse key locations such as educational institutions, hospitals, offices, and market areas. The initiative is designed to act as a bridge between the police and the public, fostering a safer environment and instilling fearlessness among women and girls.

The pink-painted vans, staffed by female police officials and sub-constables, are set to enhance safety, particularly during nighttime. This initiative marks a proactive step by the Kalimpong Police to provide a visible and reassuring presence, ensuring the well-being of women in the town.

District Magistrate Balasubramanian T praised the initiative, emphasizing that the Pink Patrol team will focus on preventive measures and empathy in their approach. Superintendent of Police Shrihari Pandey noted that while the program is launching in Kalimpong, there are plans to extend this initiative to other areas in due course, reflecting a broader state and national trend towards enhancing women’s safety.

Following recent incidents that highlighted the need for increased safety measures, such as the RG Kar incident, this initiative echoes similar efforts in other states. 

In Kerala, the Pink Patrol program was introduced in 2016. Additionally, the Kozhikode City Vanitha Police Station, inaugurated by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 23, 1973, remains India’s first all-women police station.

For any safety concerns or assistance, the Kalimpong Police has established helpline numbers: 9147889088 and 03552255273. The Pink Patrol initiative signifies a progressive step in ensuring the safety and security of women, aiming to create a more secure and supportive community environment.