Introduction
In accordance with the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India, 'Police' and 'Public Order' are subjects under the jurisdiction of the State Governments. Therefore, State Governments are entrusted with the responsibility of crime prevention, detection, registration, investigation, and the maintenance of law and order within the railway network. They carry out these duties through their law enforcement agencies, primarily the Government Railway Police (GRP) and District Police. Nevertheless, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) serves as a supportive entity, bolstering the efforts of the GRP/District Police to enhance the protection and security of passenger areas, passengers, and related matters.
Safety measure for Women in Trains
To ensure the safety and security of passengers, including women passengers, Indian Railways has implemented several measures:
Train Escorts: On routes and sections that are considered vulnerable and identified as high-risk, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) escorts approximately 2500 trains daily, in addition to the 2200 trains escorted by the Government Railway Police (GRP) from various states. This practice provides a visible security presence that helps deter criminal activities.
Gender-Balanced Escorts: Zonal railways deploy an appropriate mix of male and female RPF/Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) personnel in train escort parties, where possible, to ensure gender balance and enhance passenger safety.
Meri Saheli Initiative: Under the 'Meri Saheli' initiative, special attention is given to the safety and security of women passengers traveling alone on trains. This initiative covers their entire journey, from the originating station to the destination station.
Security Helpline: A Security Help Line number, 182, is operational throughout the Indian Railways network. This helpline is designed to provide security-related assistance to women and other passengers in distress. Efforts are being made to automate this helpline to ensure faster response and assistance.
Ladies Special Trains: Ladies compartments/coaches of all newly manufactured Electrical Multiple Unit (EMU) and Air-conditioned rakes of Kolkata Metro are equipped with Emergency Talk Back Systems, Closed Circuit Television Surveillance Cameras, and flasher lights in some zonal railways.
Preventing Unauthorised Entry: Regular drives are conducted to prevent male passengers from entering compartments reserved for women. Those found in violation of these provisions are prosecuted under the Railways Act.
Social Media Engagement: Indian Railways actively engages with passengers, including women passengers, through various social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. This engagement serves the dual purpose of enhancing passenger security and addressing any security concerns that passengers may have.
CCTV Surveillance: The installation of CCTV cameras at approximately 394 railway stations across the Indian Railways network and installation of CCTV cameras in 5882 coaches in trains serves to enhance the safety and security of passengers, including women.
Integrated Security System (ISS): An Integrated Security System (ISS) has been sanctioned to enhance surveillance mechanisms at over 202 railway stations. This system includes Close Circuit Television Camera Networks and Access Control measures.
Public Address Announcements: Frequent announcements are made through the Public Address System to educate passengers about precautionary measures against theft, snatching, drugging, and other safety concerns.
Medical Facilities: In compliance with the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and recommendations from experts at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), a Medical Box containing life-saving medicines, equipment, and oxygen cylinders is available at all railway stations and passenger-carrying trains, ensuring immediate medical assistance.
Collaboration with State Authorities: The RPF maintains liaison with State Police and GRP authorities at all levels. This collaboration ensures the security of women passengers, prevents crime, facilitates the registration and investigation of cases, and maintains law and order in railway premises and on running trains.
State Level Security Committee: State Level Security Committees for Railways (SLSCR) have been formed for all States/Union Territories, chaired by the respective Director General of Police/Commissioner, to regularly monitor and review railway security arrangements.
For immediate assistance, including medical needs, passengers can lodge complaints on the RailMadad Portal or contact the Helpline Number 139, which is integrated with the National Emergency Number 112.
FAQ
Q. How do I find women-only compartments on a train?
A.Women-only compartments are usually marked with pink boards. You can also ask railway staff for assistance.
Q. What should I do if I face harassment on a train?
A.Immediately contact the authorities through the helpline numbers 182 or 139. Use the emergency stop button if necessary.
Q. Are there special provisions for night travellers?
A.Yes, Indian Railways provides additional security for night travellers, including increased presence of security personnel.
Q. How can I report an incident of harassment?
A,Report any incidents to the railway authorities, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), or the Government Railway Police (GRP) at the nearest station.
