The Chamarajanagar district police’s My Dear Friend initiative, launched in November across 240 educational institutions under 15 police stations, has earned widespread praise from students—especially girls—seeking a discreet way to report issues such as ragging, harassment, stalking, and academic hurdles.
Through this initiative, students drop anonymous complaint letters into secure boxes placed within their institutions. Local beat officers collect these letters every Friday, and action-taken reports are submitted to the Superintendent of Police (SP) each Monday. SP B.T. Kavitha, the driving force behind the initiative, emphasized the need for a safe, non-intimidating space for young girls to voice their concerns—without fear of stigma or retaliation.
So far, the police have acted on 315 student complaints, helping many girls continue their education, even in the absence of family support. The names of complainants are kept confidential, with action taken swiftly and sensitively. Offenders—ranging from stalkers to eve-teasers—are summoned, warned, and in serious cases, charged under appropriate laws including POCSO.
The number of complaints grew after awareness drives: from 3 in November to 85 in December, peaking at 123 in January, before declining during the exam season.
Students also raised issues such as poor hostel food, extended class hours, and harassment on public transport. The initiative has restored confidence among girl students, offering both relief and protection.
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