Shivamogga: The Obavva Squad for the safety of women which was started when Ravi D Channannavar was the Superintendent of Police (SP) of the district has been relaunched. The relaunch is to bring the eve teasers and offenders who abuse and harass women to justice.
The Obavva Squad which was active during SP Ravi D Channannavar’s tenure here, had registered more than 150 petty cases in a span of four months, against men who abused and harassed women.
However, the squad lost its significance after Ravi D Channannavar’s transfer and Abhinav Ashok Khare who took over as the new SP, did not show any interest in the squad. Keeping Obavva Squad active or disbanding it is in the sole authority of the district’s SP.
Considering the safety of young girls and women in the district, Obavva Squad has been relaunched by Dr. Ashwini who recently took over as the new SP.
However, the squad has its limitations and it can only file petty cases against the offenders. Under the Karnataka Police Act (KPA), 1963 Section 92 (a), it can fine a minimum of Rs 10 to maximum Rs 200. If the law is amended to increase the quantum of punishment, the squad would be more effective.
