CM’s announcement gets wide appreciation

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 4

After the nationwide uproar over the brutal rape and killing of Telengana vet, the Punjab government’s decision to provide free and safe ride home to stranded women has managed to earn it approval from women. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Tuesday announced that police will provide free drop facility to home for women, who are stranded outside between 9 pm and 6 am and a state-wide facility will be available on Dial 100, 112 and 181, through which a woman caller will be immediately connected to the police control room (PCR). As the announcement has been made and the DGP been issued instructions for Pan Punjab implementation, women in city hope for ‘safer’ commute.

Monika, a beauty professional from city, said: “It’s a good start and let’s see how much of it is implemented efficiently. The lack of safe public transportation in city is cause of concern for working women, especially those who have to commute from areas like Verka, Mehta or Majitha. I have to travel at least 27-km one side everyday while coming from Chabal to work in Putlighar. It will be a huge step towards women safety if carried out responsibly.”

Manisha Nagi, digital marketing professional from city, said:“Travelling late at night, even when one is driving a car, becomes a concern for women due to the probability of any untowardly incident. Since, the city roads bear deserted look after 10 pm in most areas, the announcement not only will ensure that women have some assurance but also will help keep the miscreants in check.”

Shuchi Mahajan, a hospitality professional, said:“It has become absolutely important for the law enforcement agencies to ensure that crimes against women are controlled. Even in broad daylight, eve teasing and harassment of women happen. Working women are more vulnerable to such incidents given that they have to travel late from work. This move is welcome but only if it is implemented with full impact.”

Shubhi Arora, a housewife, said: “Police escorting the women stranded will definitely ensure that women feel safe at least when in need. But more has to be done to ensure overall safety of women in city and otherwise. This is just a small step in the right direction but the police need to pull up their socks.”