The Haryana Government had launched its first all-women police station in Sector 51, Gurgaon, in 2015. It has now become the first police station to open a phulwari or a playing area for kids within its premises. Gurgaon police commissioner Sandeep Khirwar had inaugurated the phulwari for kids within the police station.
To help kids feel at home
Talking about how a phulwari for kids would help kids feel at home, ACP Pankhuri Kumar said, "Lots of women visit this police station, often with their kids in tow. So, we wanted to give their kids an atmosphere which was different from that of a police station. The phulwari is filled with toys, puzzles and other games to make sure kids don't get negatively affected by the surroundings."
She also added that kids who have been sexually abused don't like entering police stations. They are taken to the phulwari to make them relax. Their counselling starts afterwards.
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Facilities at Phulwari
Besides ensuring a secure environment for children to play, the Phulwari also has a woman officer to look after them. It also offers proper bedding for children who want to take a quick nap.
Its entry is separate from that of the main police station section. According to official records, around 7-8 kids visit the police station daily.
"At present, this place is full of toys. In the comings days, we're planning to come up with newer stuff here, in partnership with organisations with whom we have already signed MoUs. We're thinking of installing a music system, for example, making the phulwari more enjoyable for kids," - ACP Pankhuri Kumar
One can easily spot books of fairy tales, toys, puzzles, art and craft items, and a playground at the phulwari. These activities keep them engaged and help them spend their time productively.
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Future plans
The police commissioner is planning to make the place more child-friendly by incorporating more activities.
"At present, this place is full of toys. In the comings days, we're planning to come up with newer stuff here, in partnership with organisations with whom we have already signed MoUs. We're thinking of installing a music system, for example, making the phulwari more enjoyable for kids," she said.
Introducing computers at the phulwari is also on cards. Police personnel having children can also avail this facility.
It is good to see police authorities exhibiting greater sensitivity towards women and children. Such child-friendly policies will go a long way in safeguarding them from the strife-torn world we live in.
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