Armed with electric batons and chilly spray, women police constables will patrol Raiganj and the surrounding areas on bikes to control crimes against women.

Thirty specially trained women police constables were brought together as a team called Rakha.

The announcement was made on Monday, on the occasion of the Holi, and a day after the International Women’s Day.

Sumit Kumar, the North Dinajpur district police chief, formally announced the new team.

“The team is armed with electric batons, two-wheelers, chilli spray and body camera. It has been formed to curb crimes against women,” said Kumar.

According to him, the Raksha team will be present everywhere in the town and rush to any spot in case of an emergency.

“Along with protecting the women, members of the team will also take action against accused persons and perpetrators of violence,” said a source.

Kumar said the team had been formed with emphasis on the security of women.

“This is an innovative initiative for the protection of all women in our district. The team will protect women from eve-teasing in every possible way. They have six two-wheelers. They will form teams and move across the town on two-wheelers. Also, others will be into patrolling at busy thoroughfares,” said the SP.

Kumar also said the district police were circulating a WhatsApp number (8370954543) so that anybody could connect with the team.

“Anybody seeking intervention of the team, specifically women, can send messages and post videos or photos. The control room will immediately receive it and the team can be mobilised for necessary intervention or help,” he said.