The ‘Dashabhuja: Ensuring Women’s Safety 360°’ initiative, launched by the Bongaon District Police in West Bengal, redefines women’s safety through a holistic, community-driven approach inspired by Goddess Durga. Spearheaded by Superintendent of Police Dinesh Kumar, the programme tackles vulnerabilities such as domestic violence, cybercrime and workplace harassment by blending traditional policing with modern technology. Women, who make up half of the district’s 10 lakh population, are the focus of this transformational project.

Dashabhuja’s “Ten Arms of Protection” include verticals like Niriksha, auditing safety in public spaces and Shakti, providing self-defense training in schools. The initiative integrates GIS mapping and crime data to identify and address hotspots,with teams of “Rakshaks” on motorbikes ensuring rapid police response in rural areas.

Empowerment is achieved through campaigns like Jagriti, educating 736 schools on issues like cyber safety and gender equality. Technological integration is advanced with Pragati, developing an app to unify these efforts with live tracking and SOS alerts.

Justice is emphasised through Niti Satata, which ensures swift case resolutions, while Samata workshops promote gender sensitivity among police and youth. Examples such as rescuing a kidnapped minor, highlight the impact of this initiative.

Dashabhuja has significantly enhanced safety and awareness, serving as a model of innovation and community collaboration. According to SP Dinesh Kumar, “When women are safe, society thrives.”