Reporter: Nitin Sharma
The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for effective preventive policing to protect women and girls from sexual offences in Delhi-NCR. While hearing suo motu proceedings concerning recent incidents of rape and sexual assault, the Court stressed that law-enforcement agencies must create an effective deterrent and ensure that women feel safe while travelling, including during late-night hours and on public transport.
A Bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K. Vinod Chandran observed that the focus of policing should not be limited to action after an offence has occurred, but should also extend to preventing crimes through effective surveillance, police presence and prompt intervention.
The proceedings relate to several serious incidents reported in the Delhi-NCR region, including alleged sexual offences against minor girls. The Court’s intervention raises broader concerns regarding the effectiveness of existing preventive mechanisms and the State’s constitutional responsibility to protect the life, dignity and personal security of women under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court’s observations place emphasis on institutional accountability and proactive policing, particularly in vulnerable locations and public transportation. The proceedings may lead to greater scrutiny of preventive measures adopted by law-enforcement authorities to ensure the safety and freedom of movement of women in Delhi-NCR.
