Cops in plain clothes will be patrolling the public transport system in Goa while a separate 24x7 desk would be set up in all police stations across the State to help women in distress.

The decision stems from the recent outrage over the Delhi gang-rape incident.

The security review committee, which met yesterday, has decided to step up measures that would ensure safety of women in the tourist state.

“Policemen in civil clothes will travel in buses to ensure that women are not molested or meted out with rude behaviour,” Superintendent of Police (North) Vijay Singh told reporters here.

Goa has a strong network of private buses which is usually overcrowded forcing women travellers to face instances of molestation.

The security review committee comprising senior police officials has also decided to set up a separate desk manned by women police officers to curb such crimes.

This desk would be open 24 hours, Singh said, adding that the women in-charge of the desk would help victims to file complaints. The police station in-charge has been asked to monitor the functioning of the desk, the SP said.

The state police have also made operational a women helpline 1091 on which they can call. “She will immediately get a help from the police,” he said.

Goa has been witnessing an increase in the number of rape cases. According to figures this year, more than 50 rape cases were registered against 30-odd cases in the last calendar year.

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