Gorakhpur, UP: Nearly 600 women constables-in-training at the 26th Battalion PAC training centre in Bichhiya, Shahpur, erupted in protest on Tuesday over substandard living conditions and inadequate facilities. Several videos circulating online show distressed trainees crying, shouting, and blocking the road in front of the PAC gate.
The protesting trainees, from the Uttar Pradesh Civil Police 2023 batch, alleged severe issues, including no access to clean water, electricity shortages, and open bathing due to a lack of proper bathrooms. The women also raised a serious complaint that a camera had been installed in the bathroom gallery, compromising their privacy.
Despite earlier complaints, they claim training officials ignored their concerns. The situation escalated when the trainees accused the ITC in-charge of misconduct and abusive language.
Authorities say the training centre was designed for 300 trainees, yet 598 women have been placed there, straining already limited resources. The camp reportedly has only one RO machine, with each trainee receiving merely half a litre of water per day, even amid soaring temperatures. Cooling systems and fans are reportedly insufficient.
Senior officials intervened, held discussions with the women, and managed to restore order temporarily. They assured swift action.
PAC Commandant Anand Kumar stated that construction is underway to increase bathroom capacity and upgrade infrastructure. “All necessary issues will be addressed soon,” he promised.
The incident has sparked wider concerns over training conditions in police academies across the state.