In a bold step towards women’s safety, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared in the state Legislative Council that a specialized cell will spearhead the search for missing women. This announcement came on Wednesday, with the cell to be led by a high-ranking female ADG-level officer.
Fadnavis detailed how the cell will strategize and implement robust search campaigns. The results are already promising: over the last year, recoveries have surged by 10 percent thanks to these targeted operations. Statewide drives, guided by women officers in regular strategy sessions, are at the heart of this initiative.
The discussion was sparked by Niranjan Davkhare’s question in the house, with Bhai Jagtap adding key follow-ups. Recovery statistics paint an encouraging picture—55-60 percent of cases resolved in the first year, escalating to 90 percent by the third year. The CM set a clear vision: elevate this to 95-96 percent through ongoing innovations and annual action plans.
Home Minister Pankaj Bhoyar elaborated on supporting efforts like ‘Operation Muskan,’ which from 2015 to 2024 ran 13 operations rescuing 41,193 children. The current 14th phase, active until February 20, has traced 1,401 kids by mid-February—947 girls and 454 boys.
Parallel initiatives include ‘Operation Shodh’ for women and children, ‘Nirbhaya Squads’ for rapid response, ramped-up patrols, and friendly initiatives such as ‘Police Uncle’ and ‘Police Didi.’ Helplines at all police stations round out this multi-pronged approach, signaling Maharashtra’s unwavering commitment to protecting its women and ensuring swift reunions.