Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today urged the state police to stand strongly with victims of sexual assaults, saying studies showed majority of such incidents were not reported out of fear of harassment by law enforcement authorities.
"Studies show that 75 per cent of such incidents are not reported (to the police). It is because the victims anticipate that they would face mental harassment and humiliation from law enforcement authorities if they approach them seeking justice," he said.
Such situations should not arise in Kerala, he said launching the Kochi City Police's 'Pink Beat' patrol for enhancing the safety for women and children in public places.
"Police should strongly stand with the victims. That is the government's stand. There will be no excuses," he added.
Vijayan, who also holds Home Portfolio, said Kerala was 'far ahead' than other states in the matter of ensuring safety and security for women.
"However, shocking incidents of violence against women are reported in the state. Even sad incidents in which small kids and elderly women are targeted occur in the state," he said. As part of the government's efforts to fight crime against women and children, the women police force will be strengthened by recruiting more personnel, he said.
"The total strength of women personnel would be increased to 15 per cent. This step is taken to ensure safety and security of women and children," the Chief Minister said. The Pink Beat includes specially trained women police personnel, who will be on patrol duty onboard the buses of KSRTC and private stage carriers and will also be present at bus stops, schools, colleges and other public places. They will assist women, children and senior citizens travelling on buses.
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