The Bharosa Cell, a police initiative in India, helps families resolve conflicts through counseling

In a commendable effort to address domestic disputes affecting women and the elderly, the Bharosa Cell, an initiative of the Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar (MBVV) police, recently marked its one-year anniversary. Born out of the director general of police’s vision for community-oriented policing, the cell has proven to be a vital mediator, providing counseling services in cases of domestic strife.

Since its inception, the Bharosa Cell has successfully mediated over 680 cases, with an impressive 60% of them completely resolved. The initiative’s primary focus is on cases that impact women and the elderly, aiming to provide a supportive environment through counseling.

In instances where a serious criminal offense is evident, the Bharosa Cell ensures that the case is appropriately escalated to the concerned police station for further investigation.

Vijaya, a beneficiary of the Bharosa Cell’s services, shared her story of seeking help after enduring two months of confinement and abuse in Congo. She commended the police staff, now considered friends, stating that she often seeks their advice. Her case of cruelty against her husband and in-laws has been registered, highlighting the cell’s role in addressing serious offenses.

In a recent case, a man abandoned his family for a younger lover and the Bharosa Cell stepped in to convince the younger woman to leave the husband alone.

The Bharosa Cell operates through two branches, one in Bhayander and the other in Vasai, both under the leadership of female police officers. Assistant Inspector Tejashri Shinde, who heads the Bhayander branch, emphasized the cell’s commitment to being a reliable support system for women in distress. Through collaborations with government-run shelters, the cell can also provide safe accommodations when needed.

The initiative boasts around a dozen dedicated counselors who have successfully tackled various cases, ranging from ill-treatment of senior citizens by their grown-up children to addressing the root causes of youth engaging in substance abuse. The Bharosa Cell also meets with angry family members to alleviate turmoil. Bi-annual follow-ups are carried out in cases that have been resolved.

Beyond its role in family dispute mediation, the Bharosa Cell has demonstrated its broader impact by intervening in cases involving Indian workers subjected to inhumane conditions in the Middle East. Through the cell’s efforts, these workers were successfully repatriated to India.

As the Bharosa Cell celebrates its one-year milestone, it stands as a testament to the effectiveness of community-oriented policing in fostering positive change and providing much-needed support to those in vulnerable situations.