West Bengal Launches 'Rattirer Shaathi' Initiative for Women’s Safety After RG Kar Tragedy

In response to the tragic rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor, West Bengal has introduced 'Rattirer Shaathi', a new initiative ensuring safety for women working night shifts, featuring a mandatory mobile app connected to local police. Additional measures include enhanced security and the establishment of safe zones.

In a significant move to enhance women's safety, the West Bengal government has launched a new initiative named 'Rattirer Shaathi' following the rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The program was announced by Alapan Bandyopadhyay, Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister, during a press conference on Saturday.

The flagship programme, aimed at protecting women working night shifts, includes the development of a special mobile app equipped with alarm devices. This app will be mandatory for all working women and will be linked to local police stations and the police control room. Bandyopadhyay emphasized the importance of extensively utilizing helpline numbers such as 100 and 112 during emergencies.

Additional measures under 'Rattirer Shaathi' involve the identification of safe zones with CCTV coverage, security checks, and the establishment of restrooms for women. Organizations are encouraged to form Visakha Committees on sexual harassment, and government and private establishments will undergo sensitisation programs on women's safety. To bolster the initiative, night police patrolling and the appointment of security officers in medical institutions will be intensified.