Kolkata is the safest metro city in India for women. As a result of the various initiatives taken by the Trinamool Congress Government, women feel the safest in the city.
According to the latest report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), ‘Crime in India 2014,’ Kolkata is the safest city in Kolkata in terms of crimes against women.
The India Today Best City Awards 2014 also rewarded Kolkata with the award for the best city in the category of crime and safety. The award was given after a rigorous survey of 30 State capitals and metro cities and 20 emerging cities on 12 parameters.
In December 2012, Kolkata Police introduced two helplines for the benefit of women: 1091, a toll-free dial-in-service for distressed and harassed women, and 8017100100, an anti-stalking helpline (one can also send SMSs to this number). One can also call up the Kolkata Police control room at (033) 22143024. Other helplines run by Kolkata Police, meant for women as well, are 2000 and 2001 (traffic helplines), 9830088884 (senior citizen helpline) and 9830079999 (medical helpline).
The State Government has also introduced an Intelligent Transport System in buses, complete with CCTVs and a direct communication to a police control room. This has been introduced in CSTC, NBSTC and SBSTC buses to especially benefit women passengers. Any untoward activity taking place can be tracked on videos and action taken accordingly.
The West Bengal Government has adopted a ‘zero tolerance’ approach towards crime against women. As a result, incidents of crime against women are constantly on the decline.