Andhra Pradesh: Girl students turn ‘Campus Cops’ at AU

Varsity launches initiative to further women’s safety

In a novel move, Andhra University initiated a programme titled ‘Campus Cops’ for women’s safety on the campus.

A 15-member team of girl students from various departments have been roped in as ‘campus cops’. The team members can be approached by girl students in case of any issue related to women’s safety and security.

The programme was launched by AP Mahila Commission chairperson Vasireddy Padma along with Vice Chancellor P.V.G.D. Prasad Reddy and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Disha) G. Prem Kajal at YVS Murthy Auditorium on Wednesday. The guests unveiled the T-shirts of the ‘Campus Cops’ on Wednesday.

During the launch, Ms. Padma said that such an initiative was launched for the first time in the State. Prof. Prasad Reddy said that the team would work to increase confidence and instill a sense of security among the girl students.

Director of Durgabhai Deshmukh Centre for Women’s Studies Dr. P. Usha said that the programme was launched following instructions from the AP Women’s Commission. AU already has Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to resolve issues of girl students and staff. Appointing students as ‘Campus Cops’ would give the girl students the confidence to approach them without hesitation or stigma.

The ‘Campus Cops’ will bridge the gap between the ICC and the students, she said, adding that after any issue is brought to light, the ICC would handle it either by taking the help of the Women’s Commission or the police.

“As of now, 15 girls were appointed as campus cops. A training programme will be conducted for them on various Acts related to women’s safety and steps being taken by the State government for women’s safety. From the next academic year, we would increase the number of campus cops and cover all departments in the varsity,” she said.