Kolkata Police tightens women safety protocols:New Zero FIR rules, women help desk guidelines mandate faster response,

Reinforcing its commitment to women’s safety, Kolkata Police has introduced a series of stricter measures to ensure faster response, greater accountability, and a more victim-centric approach in handling crimes against women. Police issues stricter Zero FIR guidelines In a fresh order issued by the Commissioner of Police, all officers have been directed to ensure the prompt transfer and follow-up of Zero FIRs, particularly in cases involving offences against women. Mandatory coordination for faster investigations The order mandates that the Officer-in-Charge (OC) registering a Zero FIR must personally coordinate with the receiving police station, share all relevant case details, provide the complainant with updates on the investigation, and furnish the contact details of the receiving OC. Importantly, every Zero FIR related to crimes against women must be reported immediately to the concerned Divisional Deputy Commissioner of Police. Women help desks get fresh protocols Complementing the order, Kolkata Police has also released comprehensive Women Help Desk Do’s and Don’ts aimed at making police stations more accessible and sensitive to survivors. Built around the six guiding principles, L-I-S-T-E-N (Listen, Inspire, Safeguard, Take Prompt Action, Empathise, Never Delay)—the guidelines instruct personnel to treat every complainant with dignity, respect, and compassion. Privacy, compassion and prompt action stressed Officers have been directed to ensure privacy, avoid victim-blaming, maintain confidentiality, provide immediate assistance, facilitate the registration of Zero FIRs regardless of jurisdiction, and prevent any form of intimidation or forced compromise. Police strengthen women safety across state The advisory further stresses that every interaction with a survivor should inspire confidence and restore dignity. Police personnel have also been instructed not to disclose victims’ identities, not to discuss cases publicly or on social media, and to prioritise timely legal action. The initiatives come amid heightened public concern over crimes against women and children and are aimed at strengthening public trust in Kolkata Police while ensuring that every survivor receives prompt, professional, and compassionate assistance.