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In a bold move to assess women's safety in the city of Agra, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sukanya Sharma went undercover, traveling alone in an auto rickshaw at night. This proactive approach highlights the growing concern for women's security and aims to understand the challenges faced by women in navigating public spaces after dark. Sharma, dressed in plain clothes, visited several sensitive locations, including Agra Cantt Railway Station, MG Road, and Sadar Bazar, effectively immersing herself in the everyday experiences of ordinary citizens.
At the railway station, Sharma posed as a distressed tourist, calling the Police helpline 112 to request assistance. She claimed to be alone and scared, testing the effectiveness of the emergency response system. Her call was promptly answered by the women's patrolling team, who assured her they were on their way. However, Sharma revealed her true identity, confirming that the system had successfully passed its test. This exercise provides valuable insights into the operational efficiency of emergency services and the ability to respond effectively to distress calls.
During her undercover journey, Sharma also encountered an auto rickshaw driver who lacked a nameplate and uniform. Upon questioning, the driver informed her that he was verified by the police and was soon to be provided with the required attire. This encounter raises crucial questions about the enforcement of regulations and the importance of identifiable drivers, especially for women traveling alone at night. The incident underscores the need for rigorous verification procedures and the consistent implementation of uniform standards for all transportation providers.
The Agra Police took to social media, specifically the platform X (formerly Twitter), to announce Sharma's undercover mission. The post highlighted her initiative to test the emergency security system by acting as a victim, utilizing the UP112 helpline to assess its effectiveness. The post sparked praise from activists and citizens alike, with many commending Sharma's proactive approach and urging other police departments to adopt similar strategies.
Activist Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj lauded Sharma's actions, calling it the 'first right step towards women's safety.' She emphasized the need for police officers to experience the city from the perspective of ordinary citizens, particularly at night, to better understand the challenges they face. Bhardwaj's statement underscores the importance of empathy and firsthand experience in shaping effective policing strategies that address the specific needs of vulnerable communities.
Netizens on social media expressed their admiration for Sharma's initiative, praising her courage and dedication to ensuring the safety of women in Agra. The response highlights the public's expectation for law enforcement to be proactive and responsive to the concerns of the community. This incident serves as a reminder that public safety is a collective responsibility and requires a collaborative effort between citizens and law enforcement agencies to create a secure environment for all.
Source: Lady cop goes undercover in Agra, travels alone in auto at night, here’s why