Delhi Police to get lessons in courtesy

Delhi Police personnel are set to get some lessons in courtesy. At a time when most women complainants fear stepping into a police station due to callous approach of the policemen, there is some hope. They will now get lessons on how to deal with women in distress in a sensitive manner. Neelam Pandey reports.

Delhi Police personnel are set to get some lessons in courtesy. At a time when most women complainants fear stepping into a police station due to callous approach of the policemen, there is some hope. They will now get lessons on how to deal with women in distress in a sensitive manner.

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A NGO has been roped in by the Delhi government's Women and Child Development department to train police personnel when a woman calls for help. It will also help counter alleged charges of rude response from policeman on duty. These policemen will be taught to be sensitive when women in distress call for help. The first session of this exercise will be held on November 7 at the police headquarter.

"The idea is to ensure women who call on the police helpline are able to discuss their problem without any fear. Sometimes the way police officers respond, women feel uncomfortable and this acts as a hindrance in getting their complaints filed," said a senior Delhi government official.

A total of 375 police personnel will be trained by the NGO and depending on its success the programme will cover others too. A module will be prepared, which will be distributed among the officials.

"The NGO is merely going to sensitise them and help them understand the manner in which they should speak to women callers. While entertaining distress calls, one needs to talk in a specific manner as the person is looking for emotional support. Being sensitive is the first step and they will also be provided information where to forward the calls if the issue is say related to dowry or rape etc," added the official.

Delhi government is also going to popularise the women helpline -1091 - by putting up advertisements at public spaces. Police officials too feel that it is a good initiative.

"We have also undertaken various campaigns to ensure safety and security of women. If other agencies are giving us a helping hand we always welcome such moves. The training programme will only help us interact in a better manner with the citizens," said a senior Delhi police official.