From Jamui in Bihar to the heart of Delhi: How moral policing mutates into sexual violence

Delhi is set to establish a specialized "Pink Force" of female police officers in response to four recent sexual attacks on minors within a span of ten days. The capital's safety has come under intense scrutiny following the series of distressing incidents. The proposal, modeled after Goa Police's existing unit, aims to deploy women personnel at high-risk locations such as schools, colleges, and metro stations during vulnerable hours.

Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu ordered the Delhi Police to develop the force, which would focus on maintaining a visible police presence in areas where women and children are commonly found. The initiative will not only involve patrolling but also educational sessions on child safety, cybercrime, substance abuse, and road safety.

The force's formation is a direct response to the recent surge in crimes against minors, including the brutal gang-rape and murder of a 17-year-old girl, the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl in Astha Kunj Park, and the gang-rape and murder of a six-year-old girl in Kishanganj. The proposed Pink Force is poised to be a significant step towards enhancing women's safety in Delhi.