Pune Police Stations To Offer Legal Support For Women Victims Through ‘Ahilya Cell’
Pune Police Stations To Offer Legal Support For Women Victims Through 'Ahilya Cell'
Renuka Suryavanshi
In response to growing concerns about the mistreatment and neglect of female crime victims at police stations, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Pune, has launched a new initiative called the ‘Ahilya Cell.’ This program will assign female lawyers to police stations to provide legal assistance and support to women in distress.
The initiative, set to begin on February 10, will cover police stations under Pune City Police, Pune Rural Police, and the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate.
Mahendra K Mahajan, Principal District and Sessions Judge and DLSA chairman, emphasized the program’s importance, stating, “The Ahilya Cell is a step towards empowering victims and ensuring justice by bridging the gap between them and the legal system.”
DLSA Secretary Sonal Patil added, “Our team of pro bono female advocates will assist women in navigating legal procedures, ensuring they are treated with respect and their cases are taken seriously. Many victims have reported facing mistreatment or delays in case registration at police stations.”
Sangita Tiwari, founder of Gulabo Gang, highlighted the need for such support, saying, “Women who approach the police are often mentally and physically traumatized. Compassionate handling reassures them they’ve taken the right step.”
