The new initiative, in collaboration with Home and Women & Child Development departments, aims to provide immediate protection and support to those facing violence or exploitation.
Udupi
The Karnataka government has formally launched its ambitious ‘AkkaPade’ scheme, a dedicated initiative aimed at ensuring immediate protection and support for women and children facing danger or distress. Implemented in collaboration with the Home Department and the Women & Child Development Department, the programme is designed to respond swiftly to cases involving abuse, violence, neglect, and exploitation, while also strengthening preventive safety measures across the state.
A primary objective of AkkaPade is to create greater awareness about safety mechanisms available to women and children, both in public and private spaces. The scheme seeks to prevent crimes and atrocities by enabling rapid intervention, offering legal protection, and building a secure environment where vulnerable individuals feel confident to seek help without fear.
In Udupi, the initiative was officially rolled out with the launch of the AkkaPade patrol unit by the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police on January 3 at the DC office. These patrol vehicles will remain operational across the district in two working shifts — from 7 am to 2 pm and from 2 pm to 8 pm — ensuring consistent presence and accessibility.
Women and children in emergencies can avail assistance through dedicated helplines. The Child Helpline (1098), Women’s Helpline (181), and Police Emergency Helpline (112) will serve as the primary contact points for reporting distress situations. Authorities have emphasized that AkkaPade is not merely a policing measure but a social safeguard intended to protect dignity, ensure justice, and build a safer Karnataka for women and children.
