Tamil Nadu CM Joseph Vijay launches Singappen Special Task force
Chennai, June 10:
In a major step towards enhancing the safety and security of women and children, the Tamil Nadu government on Wednesday launched the first phase of the Singappen Special Task Force, a dedicated women-led policing initiative introduced by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.
The specialised force is envisaged as a statewide network of 270 units to be established in phases. In the first stage, 70 Singappen units have been deployed across Tamil Nadu, ensuring that every district has at least one dedicated team to respond to issues affecting women and children.
Chennai will have the highest concentration of units, with 12 teams positioned at key locations across the city. Four units each have been assigned to the Tambaram and Avadi Police Commissionerates, while other police commissionerates across the State will have two units each to strengthen surveillance, preventive policing and emergency response.
Each unit will initially consist of two women Sub-Inspectors and a woman police constable. To staff the new force, the police department has selected 140 women Sub-Inspectors and 420 women police personnel from different districts. The units will function round the clock on a rotational basis, ensuring continuous availability and rapid response to complaints and emergencies.
Officials said the task force has been designed as an all-women policing unit, although male personnel may be deployed in support roles such as vehicle operation and logistical assistance whenever required.
The government is also working on dedicated communication channels to improve public access to the service. Special mobile phone numbers and WhatsApp groups linked to the Singappen units are expected to be announced shortly. Until then, women requiring urgent assistance have been advised to contact the police emergency helpline, 100.
To strengthen mobility and field operations, the government has sanctioned the purchase of 319 four-wheelers and 101 two-wheelers exclusively for the task force.
Police officials said the initiative is expected to improve response times, strengthen preventive policing and create a more secure environment for women and children across Tamil Nadu.
