The surveillance project will initially cover districts including Khurda, Puri, Cuttack, Ganjam, Sundargarh, Balasore, Sambalpur, Angul, Koraput, and Balangir
The Odisha government has announced plans to bolster women’s security by installing advanced CCTV surveillance systems in areas identified as hotspots for criminal activities. Additionally, a mobile application dedicated to women’s protection is being developed, aiming to provide swift emergency assistance.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi shared details of the initiative in a written reply during the assembly session on Monday. Responding to a query from BJD MLA Aswini Kumar Patra regarding the state’s roadmap for ensuring women’s safety, Majhi outlined a series of measures planned for the 2025-26 financial year.
“To ensure women’s safety and curb crimes against them, the government has drawn up several plans for the 2025-26 financial year. CCTV cameras will be installed in hotspot zones in 10 districts to help police identify culprits involved in crimes against women,” Majhi stated.
The surveillance project will initially cover districts including Khurda, Puri, Cuttack, Ganjam, Sundargarh, Balasore, Sambalpur, Angul, Koraput, and Balangir. Police teams are currently conducting surveys in these districts to pinpoint zones most prone to incidents such as harassment, stalking, and molestation. The identification process relies on data gathered from FIRs and reported incidents.
Director General of Police Y B Khurania said, “We will include frequently visited locations like shopping malls, parks, and women’s colleges within the crime hotspot zones. The installed cameras will provide continuous surveillance, assisting in criminal identification and tracking, while ensuring swift emergency responses.”
Alongside CCTV monitoring, the police will deploy dedicated teams for regular patrolling in these zones, particularly during peak hours and in the evenings. Authorities believe that a visible security presence combined with constant surveillance will deter potential offenders.
The proposed mobile application for women’s safety will be linked to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), or the dial 112 service, providing a streamlined way for women to seek immediate help.
Police officials noted that the recorded footage will not only aid in identifying suspects but also help analyse crime patterns, allowing for better resource allocation and improved preventive measures. They stressed that such surveillance infrastructure would be an essential tool in reducing crimes against women.
Local residents and activists have welcomed the move. “CCTV surveillance and tracking of criminals will contribute significantly to creating a safer environment for women. Regular patrolling is equally essential,” said Smaranika Tripathy, a women’s rights activist.
The government’s initiative reflects a broader strategy to create safer public spaces and improve overall security infrastructure in the state.
