Fearless Vigilance: How Women in Jhabua Became Crime Fighters

In a groundbreaking initiative, women in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh have taken on the role of private agents, providing the police with reliable inputs to prevent crimes. With as many as 470 out of approximately 700 villages in Jhabua participating, these fearless women are actively working to combat crimes against women, girls, and children in their communities. Under the Vasudha Abhiyan, these women, known as Vasudha Didis, vigilantly monitor and report crimes committed against women and children. This includes addressing social evils such as witch branding, dowry-related abuse, child marriages, superstitious practices, and the sale of illegal liquor, which are particularly prevalent in tribal areas of the state. The Vasudha Didis have also received training to alert the police about various emergencies, including child abduction, female foeticide, natural disasters, and accidents. Since the implementation of this program, the police have received specific and reliable information from the Vasudha Didis, enabling them to take timely action and prevent these incidents from escalating into major law and order issues. The idea for this program was conceived during a discussion between the Superintendent of Police in Jhabua and prominent citizens, including journalist Chandrabhan Singh Bhadauria. The selection of Vasudha Didis was based on their willingness to become trusted police informants, with qualities such as being active, fearless, and adept at using mobile phones and networking within their villages. The training of the Vasudha Didis was conducted by female police personnel from various police facilities, ensuring that the women were well-prepared for their role as private agents.