In a significant move to enhance the safety of women passengers, Indian Railways has decided to equip women personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) with pepper spray cans. This initiative aims to empower them to respond more effectively in emergency situations.
The decision has been taken with a special focus on ensuring the security of women passengers and enhancing the self-reliance of women RPF personnel. Considering instances where women may feel unsafe, Indian Railways has prioritized equipping RPF women personnel stationed at deserted railway stations, moving trains, and remote areas with pepper spray to help them deal with potential threats.
Director General of Railway Protection Force (RPF), Manoj Yadav, hailed this initiative, stating, "This decision aligns with our mission of women empowerment and making public places more secure. By providing pepper spray to women RPF personnel, we are not only enhancing their safety but also boosting their efficiency and confidence."
Bhopal Railway Division has over 500 RPF personnel, including approximately 45 women personnel. These women officers will not only be provided with pepper spray but will also undergo specialized training in self-defense and crisis management to ensure they can handle unexpected situations effectively.
Indian Railways remains committed to women's safety, with women comprising 9% of the RPF—the highest proportion in any Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). Many of these women officers are part of the ‘Meri Saheli’ team, dedicated to ensuring the safety of women travelers on trains.
Currently, more than 250 ‘Meri Saheli’ teams across India assist approximately 12,900 women passengers daily by establishing direct contact with them. In cases of crisis, these women RPF personnel promptly intervene, ensuring a safer travel experience.
Bhopal Railway Division Commandant Prashant Yadav highlighted that incidents of attacks on women RPF personnel have been reported in certain zones. To address this concern, the decision to equip them with pepper spray was made. He stated, "Our women personnel will not only safeguard themselves but will also work towards increasing awareness among women passengers."
