Police-Led Awareness Drive in Balurghat Highlights Women's Safety and Children's Rights

Staff Reporter.TOD.Balurghat 

In an effort to promote a safer and more inclusive environment for women and children, the South Dinajpur District Police on Friday organized an awareness program on women's safety and children's rights at Balurghat Girls' High School.The event brought together students, educators, law enforcement officials and community representatives to discuss a range of issues affecting young people and women in contemporary society.

Among those attending were Bikram Prasad, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Headquarters), Balurghat; Sumanta Biswas, Inspector-in-Charge of Balurghat Police Station; Saurav Ghosh, Inspector-in-Charge of the Cyber Crime Police Station; Hanuta Ram, an official of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the Border Security Force's Hili Border Outpost; Mahua Chowdhury, headmistress of Balurghat Girls' High School; Chandrima Sarkar, an officer of Balurghat Women's Police Station; and child protection worker Suraj Das.

Speakers emphasized the growing risks faced by women and children, including human trafficking, child marriage, substance abuse and cybercrime. They underscored the importance of understanding child protection laws and safeguarding children's rights through greater awareness and community engagement.Particular attention was given to the dangers associated with the unchecked use of mobile phones, online fraud and the misuse of social media platforms. Officials encouraged students to remain vigilant online and to seek assistance from law enforcement agencies and government support services whenever necessary.

The discussion also highlighted the need for coordinated efforts among families, schools, law enforcement authorities and the broader community to ensure the safety and well-being of girls and young women. Participants were advised on self-defense strategies, personal safety measures and ways to recognize and avoid potentially harmful situations.

At the conclusion of the program, attendees pledged to play an active role in combating violence against women and children, preventing child marriage and human trafficking, and fostering a society free from substance abuse.Organizers said similar awareness initiatives would continue in the future as part of broader efforts to build a safer, more sensitive and child-friendly society.