Singappen task force members hit the ground in Coimbatore, assure women of round-the-clock support

COIMBATORE: Following the statewide launch of the ‘Singappen’ special task force by chief minister of Tamil Nadu C Joseph Vijay on Tuesday, the special force was operationalised in Coimbatore city and district on Wednesday.Coimbatore city police commissioner N Kannan distributed specialised patrol vehicles to the selected women police officers at the Coimbatore city police commissioner office on Wednesday. Similarly, Coimbatore district superintendent of police A Pavan Kumar gave instructions to the Singappen special force personnel at the district police office and handed over the patrol vehicles to them.According to senior police officers, all selected personnel are highly educated, physically fit and mentally resilient, making them perfectly suited for this specialised project. The officers underwent rigorous training to handle sensitive cases. In Coimbatore city, two teams — comprising 12 members in total, including four sub-inspectors and eight women police officers, excluding male drivers — were deployed. In the district, a team led by two sub-inspectors and four personnel (excluding the driver) commenced their duties on Wednesday. ‘Singappen’ task force members hit the ground in various key locations in the city, including Gandhipuram and the Ukkadam bus stand, to actively interact with the public. While speaking to women at colleges, bus stops and public areas, the task force officers assured them of round-the-clock support.Police personnel on duty stated that women can approach the task force at any time regarding harassment faced at workplaces, educational institutions or during public transit. College students were also encouraged to report instances of ragging or bullying immediately.Furthermore, the officers emphasised that men should conduct themselves respectfully in public spaces and on buses, warning that stringent legal action would be taken against anyone crossing boundaries. They highlighted that the positive contribution of men was vital to building a safe society.The initiative received an overwhelming response on its first day. Women and children waiting at the busy Gandhipuram bus stand warmly welcomed the ‘Singappen’ special task force members, extending their heartfelt congratulations and wishes for the success of the mission.