Cannot prevent every attack: Rly cops

The railway police have increased the security in their jurisdiction to curb the occurrence of crime, especially on women.

The railway police have increased the security in their jurisdiction to curb the occurrence of crime, especially on women.

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However, the railway police state that due to shortage of staff, it is not possible for them to keep a tab on the incidents that take place in their jurisdiction.

“There are several policemen positioned at various stations and inside local trains. They are all vigilant and alert on duty. But we cannot prevent every attack or accident that occurs. Besides, there are several reasons for such attacks - from personal tiffs to robberies,” said assistant commissioner of police (railways), Damodar Shinde.

The railway police had been directed by the Bombay high court to post personnel in the local trains during the night to ensure the safety of women.

“We are following the instructions. However, these incidents occur during the day and it becomes difficult for us to keep a tab on such incidents,” said a senior railway police officer requesting anonymity.

Railway policemen have also started patrolling railway stations. However, during daytime, they claim, women’s compartments are usually so crowded that it becomes difficult for them to get on board.

“But the main problem we are dealing with is shortage of manpower. Once we deal with that, there will be an evident decrease in the occurrence of such incidents,” he added.