In a significant move to bolster the safety and security of women and children, the Dakshina Kannada district has officially rolled out the 'Akka Pade' initiative. Superintendent of Police Arun K flagged off the dedicated vehicle for the program in Mangaluru on Wednesday, marking a proactive step towards creating a safer environment.
What is the Akka Pade Initiative?
The Akka Pade scheme is a state-wide program launched by the Karnataka government across all 31 districts. Its core mission is to offer immediate assistance and protection to women and children who find themselves in distress, facing abuse, violence, neglect, or exploitation. Each team under this initiative comprises five women home guards, specifically trained to handle sensitive situations.
The primary objective is to ensure timely support, uphold the dignity of vulnerable individuals, and empower them. The initiative also focuses on preventive measures through awareness campaigns about legal rights, safety protocols, and available support systems, aiming to deter crimes by fostering a fear-free environment with the backing of law enforcement agencies.
Operational Strategy and Deployment
The Akka Pade teams will function in close coordination with the local police at the district level. To ensure extensive coverage, the teams will operate in two shifts daily: the first from 7 am to 2 pm and the second from 2 pm to 8 pm, covering the crucial hours between 7 am and 8 pm.
Team members will be strategically deployed at key locations identified as sensitive or having high footfall of women and children. These locations include:
- Schools and colleges
- Girls' and women's hostels
- Bus stands and railway stations
- Local markets and tourist spots
- Places of worship
A Collaborative Effort for Community Safety
The flag-off ceremony was attended by members of the district-level monitoring committee for the Akka Pade scheme, underscoring the collaborative approach of the administration. By positioning trained women personnel in public spaces, the initiative seeks to be a visible and approachable pillar of support. It represents a concrete effort to translate safety policies into on-ground action, ensuring that protective measures are accessible when and where they are needed the most.
This launch in Dakshina Kannada is part of a broader vision to promote safety, dignity, and empowerment for women and children across Karnataka, making public and private spaces more secure for everyone.
