Empowering Women: Sahas Initiative by Telangana Police Creating Safer Workplaces
28-06-2023
Telangana Police Department has taken a bold stride towards creating safer work environments for women with the recent launch of the ‘Sahas’ initiative. The program, officially inaugurated by Home Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali, signifies a significant step in strengthening the support ecosystem for women who face workplace sexual harassment. Sahas, meaning “courage” in various Indian languages, embodies the essence of the initiative, which aims to empower and protect women in the workplace. The launch event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including DGP Anjani Kumar, Additional DGP of Women Safety Wing Shikha Goel, Femina Miss India Manasa Varanasi, and senior industry representatives.
As part of the Sahas initiative, a range of essential resources and platforms were introduced to facilitate support for women. The Sahas Microsite, Sahas Sathi Chatbot, Sahas Whatsapp Number, Forum, and online support services were all unveiled to provide accessible channels for women to seek assistance, report incidents, and access necessary resources. During the launch, Home Minister Mahmood Ali commended Telangana Police for their relentless efforts in reducing crime throughout the state. He emphasized the importance of addressing relevant issues in a humane manner, highlighting the commitment of the police department to create a secure environment for all. Recognizing the significant number of employers in Telangana, estimated to be over three lakhs, the Sahas team is dedicated to ensuring that all employers are connected and sensitized through awareness and training activities over time.
Home Minister Mahmood Ali also urged the Sahas Steering Committee to spearhead a comprehensive awareness and training campaign among stakeholders, including affiliate companies and government departments. This massive campaign will serve as a crucial step in fostering a culture of safety and respect for women across workplaces in Telangana.
C. Shekar Reddy, Chairman of CII & IWN, shared his perspective as an entrepreneur and employer, expressing his firm belief that every employer in Telangana deeply cares about the safety and well-being of women workers. As part of the Sahas initiative, employers will receive valuable support from legal and training experts, facilitating the creation of an enabling ecosystem and strengthening existing support channels within their organizations. The Sahas initiative’s launch underscores Telangana’s commitment to pioneering initiatives that foster collaboration between the government and industries while prioritizing the safety and well-being of women. By providing comprehensive support services and driving awareness campaigns, the Sahas initiative aims to empower women, eliminate workplace harassment, and create a secure and equitable work environment.
Through the Sahas initiative, Telangana Police has taken a significant stride towards building a society where women can thrive, ensuring that workplaces become havens of safety, respect, and empowerment for all women. With its comprehensive approach and emphasis on collaboration, the Sahas initiative is set to transform the workplace landscape and set a benchmark for similar initiatives across the nation.