Sat Dec 13 18:59:55 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the article followed by a rewritten news report:

Summary:

The Delhi Police’s “Shishtachar” (discipline/etiquette) squads, launched nine months ago following a BJP election promise, are credited with a significant decrease in crimes against women. These squads patrol public spaces, deter harassment, and identify hotspots where offenses are common. They have detained thousands of offenders and fostered a sense of security among women. The initiative has also led to the development of programs like “Sanskarshala” aimed at counseling at-risk youth.

News Article:

Delhi Police “Shishtachar” Squads Claim Success in Reducing Crimes Against Women

New Delhi – A controversial initiative launched by the Delhi Police nine months ago, the “Shishtachar” (discipline/etiquette) squads, is being hailed as a success by police officials, who report a substantial decline in crimes against women. The squads, deployed across the city, were a key promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the Delhi Assembly election campaign, mirroring similar initiatives in other states.

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer Delhi) Sachin Sharma, the presence of the squads has led to the detention of 2,885 offenders and a 45% reduction in reported cases of rape, molestation, and harassment. “Overall, such cases have fallen sharply from 302 in 2024 to 165 in 2025 (till December 10),” Sharma stated.

The “Shishtachar” squads consist of male and female officers who patrol public spaces, including markets, public transportation, and areas around schools and colleges. They aim to deter harassment and identify recurring problem areas.

DCP (West) Darade Sharad Bhaskar highlighted the squads’ role in improving police approaches. “The help and perspective we have received through the initiative has improved our approach. We have decided to introduce these squads to each police station in our district,” he said.

The initiative has faced scrutiny, with critics questioning the potential for overreach. However, many women have expressed feeling safer due to the increased police presence. Sonu, a student at Bharti College in Janakpuri, noted that the squad’s presence has deterred men from harassing students outside the college.

Building on the success of the “Shishtachar” squads, the Delhi Police is now exploring additional community-based initiatives, such as “Sanskarshala,” aimed at counseling at-risk youth and promoting positive values. The program targets young boys who are not in school, offering guidance on appropriate behavior towards women and girls and counseling against drug use.

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