Sabzi Mandi women's police station registers nine FIRs in first month
Delhi's first women's police station in Sabzi Mandi, North Delhi, completed its first month of operations on July 19, registering nine FIRs and preparing its first chargesheet. Led by Station House Officer Laxmi Singh, the dedicated facility was established following its inauguration on June 19 to provide a specialized and sensitive environment for women to report crimes such as domestic violence, rape, and dowry disputes.
In its first month, the station registered nine FIRs, including two under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, two for rape and molestation, and three related to dowry. The station is currently preparing to file its maiden chargesheet in a case involving charges of rape and POCSO.
Since its launch, the station has received 154 complaints, of which 23 have been disposed of. It has also taken over 298 complaints previously handled by the Crimes Against Women (CAW) cell at Sabzi Mandi, disposing of 47 so far.
According to Station House Officer Laxmi Singh, the dedicated station offers a more focused approach compared to the CAW cell, which primarily handles dowry-related cases. At the new station, officers focus solely on women-related complaints, reducing the burden of multiple duties faced by personnel at regular police stations. Additionally, transferring cases to this station reduces the ability of local elements to influence investigations.
Complainants have shared varied experiences at the new facility. Priyanka (name changed), who approached the station regarding a marital dispute, expressed satisfaction with the police response, stating that counselling helped her work toward reconciliation. Conversely, Shalu (name changed), a resident of Burari, reported delays after waiting over an hour for an investigating officer who failed to appear.
The station also faces operational challenges. It currently operates with 35 to 40 personnel, below its sanctioned strength of 57. Officers have also highlighted the need for trained counsellors, as they currently rely on their own experience and coordination with the Delhi Commission for Women to handle the high volume of cases requiring preliminary inquiry.
