Hyderabad, India – In a proactive effort to ensure the safety of women during the vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi festivities, the Hyderabad Telangana Police's SHE brigades made significant strides in curbing harassment, leading to the arrest of 966 individuals for violations of women's modesty. The authorities implemented heightened surveillance measures, including video recording, to capture evidence and deter potential offenders.
The majority of the arrests occurred near the iconic Khairtabad Bada Ganesh idol, a towering 70-foot representation of Lord Ganesh that attracts thousands of devotees and visitors each year. The idol was immersed in the Hussain Sagar Lake on the final day of the celebrations, September 17, marking the culmination of the festivities.
The SHE brigades have been on high alert, specifically targeting men who exploit crowded public spaces to engage in inappropriate behavior towards women. To enhance safety during the celebrations, officers deployed surveillance methods that yielded critical evidence against the malefactors. According to police reports, cases have been registered against most offenders under Section 70(c) of the Criminal Procedure (CP) Act and Section 292 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
These individuals are set to be presented in court to face the consequences of their actions. In instances where video evidence was unavailable, the offenders were counselled and advised sternly in the presence of their family members, reinforcing the message that such behavior is unacceptable.
The SHE brigades are urging women to actively report any instances of harassment, including eve teasing and molestation. Complaints can be made by calling the emergency number 100 or through the official WhatsApp number, 9490616555. The commitment of the Hyderabad police to safeguarding women's rights and ensuring a secure environment during community celebrations continues to be a priority, sending a strong message that harassment will not be tolerated.