“URJA Desk” in Madhya Pradesh Police Stations: Game Changer for Women Victims

The URJA Desk, introduced in Madhya Pradesh police stations, in India, has revolutionized the way women victims seek justice. Researchers from around the world have discovered that desk provides ample space for women to share their problems with the police.

The three-day Justice, Inclusion and Victim’s Access (JIVA) conference, which began in Bhopal on Thursday, brought together experts to discuss “Access to Justice, Inclusion and Evidence-Based Practice” under the theme of “Gender, Law Enforcement, and Evidence-Based Practice.”

The University of Virginia Professor Sandeep Sukhantar, in his paper, highlighted that the URJA desk plays a crucial role in providing justice to women victims.

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) designed the “Urgent Action and Just Action” URJA desk concept, which was implemented in the state in 2017.

According to Professor Akchay Mangla from the University of Oxford, research conducted at seven police stations found that the training provided to URJA desk staff changed the approach of police personnel in their work. Manisha Pathak, the ADCP of Indore, shared her experience, saying that social
organizations are coming forward for women’s counseling, and the third gender is also supporting the police.

Former director general of CBI, Rishi Shukla, acknowledged that women’s safety is one of the biggest challenges in the internet world, and he urged police officials to contribute to research. BK Dewedi, principal secretary of the law and legislative department, emphasized that only proper investigation can lead to justice for the victim, and technical support has improved the quality of the investigation.

Staff Reporter