‘Police Kaka’ to resolve students’ issues

Mumbai: The Thane (rural) police has initiated the “Police Kaka” (police uncle) scheme aimed at resolving problems faced by school and college students in Mira-Bhayandar.

The “Police Kaka - Police Didi” scheme was launched by the superintendent of police, Dr Shivaji Rathod, in the presence of mayor Dimple Mehta; additional SP Sanjay Patil; and a host of students, teachers and principals at a function held at Poddar High School, Bhayandar (west) on Tuesday.

Under the scheme, personnel right from constables to senior police inspectors and even deputy SPs will be assigned as “Police Kaka” for one educational institution in their respective jurisdiction. Similarly, one female personnel will be shortlisted to handle the task of Police Didi for each of the schools and colleges, to establish a friendly rapport with girl students. The Police Didis will also keep a close watch on any type of illegal activities in their respective areas, especially around educational institutions. “The dedicated Police Kakas and Police Didis who will basically play the role of buddy cops for students, will visit the educational premises on a regular basis and their phone numbers along with their names and designations will be displayed on the notice boards of educational campuses,” said assistant SP Atul Kulkarni.

Students can share their complaints pertaining to ragging, bullying, eve teasing, stalking or any other type of harassment.  “Apart from providing them with a platform to report such incidents, we aim to educate students about sexual harassment and abuse. For this, interactive sessions and even essay competitions for students on such topics will be organised in each division,” said SP Dr Rathod. Police officials said that efforts were on to install complaint boxes in all schools and colleges where students could write and drop in their grievances and suggestions.