Dungarpur- At a time when sexual assaults, molestations, and crimes against women have become pressing issues nationwide, with activists demanding accountability from both state and central governments, the dismal security conditions at Veer Bala Kali Bai Girl's Hostel in Dungarpur, the tribal dominated district of Rajasthan have come under scrutiny.

Earlier this week, three miscreants trespassed into the hostel, terrorizing the tribal inmates and forcing them to protest outside the Collectorate the next day, braving the pouring rain. In response, the Collector promptly formed a committee, leading to the suspension of two wardens and a coach.

On Thursday, TAD Minister Babulal Kharadi visited the hostel, assuring the girls of their safety and announcing several security measures. Babulal Kharadi also informed the students that the miscreants had been identified, and efforts were underway to apprehend them as swiftly as possible. During his interaction with the students, Kharadi inquired about the management of the mess committee and other daily concerns, but the students remained silent, indicating deeper issues within the hostel's operation.

The students informed the Minister that they were not receiving the special diet on Sundays, a standard provision in many hostels. This revelation led to strong displeasure from the Minister, who assured the girls that their security and well-being were his utmost priority. He promised that immediate steps would be taken to rectify the situation.

However, Dungarpur-Banswara MP Rajkumar Roat sharply criticized TAD Minister Babulal Kharadi, saying, if he finds time from religion politics, then he should pay attention to the miserable condition of his own department.

New Security Measures Announced

In response to the incident, Minister Kharadi announced several new security measures aimed at protecting the students. These include the appointment of two female guards at the hostel to provide round-the-clock security. Additionally, he directed the Deputy Commissioner Anil Pahadia to review all existing facilities, including the condition of bathrooms, drinking water, and electricity, and to ensure that comprehensive security arrangements were in place.

Furthermore, the Minister declared that any warden who had been serving in the same hostel for more than five years would be transferred as part of a broader effort to refresh the administration. He also emphasized the importance of digital security, announcing that CCTV cameras installed in the hostels would be linked to the Udaipur control room for real-time monitoring. The attendance of both students and wardens will now be recorded electronically to ensure accountability.

Minister Kharadi revealed plans to introduce self-defense courses in all hostels. These courses aim to equip the girls with the necessary skills to protect themselves in case of any further incidents. Additionally, coaches will be appointed in each hostel to provide sports training, ensuring that tribal students receive a well-rounded education.

Background of the Incident

The terrifying ordeal began on August 25, Sunday night when three miscreants climbed over the hostel wall and entered the premises. One of the intruders was disguised in a sari, and the group caused a commotion for over an hour. Their behavior became increasingly inappropriate, with some of them even removing their clothing. The students, fearing for their safety, informed the hostel warden, who initially responded but left the scene soon after.

Shockingly, the intruders returned later that night, forcing the girls to take matters into their own hands. Armed with sticks, they confronted the miscreants, who then fled the scene. The students stayed awake all night, keeping watch over the hostel. By Monday morning, the situation escalated as the miscreants returned yet again, prompting the students to march to the Collectorate in the pouring rain to submit a memorandum to the SDM.

Action Taken

Following the report from the students, a thorough investigation was launched by the Collector Ankit Kumar Singh. The Deputy Commissioner, Anil Pahadia, suspended Warden Sharda Barjod, Warden Lakshmi Katara, and Coach Ritu Rot after a review of the situation. All three have been relieved from their duties and transferred to the Commissioner's Office in Udaipur.

During the inspection of the hostel, it was discovered that a nearby abandoned building had become a hideout for the miscreants. This building had been a problem in the past as well, with similar incidents reported in April.

By early Monday afternoon, local law enforcement officials, including the police inspector and SDM, conducted a detailed inspection of the hostel premises. It was found that the CCTV cameras installed at the hostel were non-functional, leading the SDM to order the immediate deployment of female police officers at the site.