In response to the rising incidents of violence against women in Maharashtra, the Kamothe Colony Forum has submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, urging the formation of an ‘Anti-Rape Squad’ in the state. A delegation from the Forum met with Senior Police Inspector Ajay Kamble of Kamothe Police Station to present their demands.

The Forum is calling for the establishment of ‘Anti-Rape Teams’ that would actively work to prevent sexual violence and harassment, including taking action against individuals who engage in lewd behaviour or make inappropriate comments. These teams would also monitor individuals with prior complaints registered against them. Additionally, the Forum emphasized the need for a system where women can report incidents of harassment or violence quickly and efficiently through these specialized teams.

Kamothe Colony Forum President Mangesh Adhav stated, "Similar to the Anti-Terrorism Squad, these Anti-Rape Teams should be established in every city to curb the increasing instances of rape in the state. The government's responsibility does not end with ensuring fast-track trials after such incidents occur; it is also responsible for preventing these heinous acts. It is deeply concerning that from a 4-year-old child to a 70-year-old grandmother, no one is safe in Maharashtra. With 7,521 rape cases reported in 2023, crimes against women have increased by 6.2% compared to previous years, which is a matter of shame for a state like Maharashtra, known for its progressive values."

The Forum also highlighted the growing sense of insecurity among women, who increasingly feel the need to protect themselves rather than relying on others for their safety. They have urged the government to implement the ‘Women's Self-Respect Scheme,’ which would include self-defense training for women and, in extreme situations, the provision of firearms licenses along with proper training. This, they believe, would empower women to defend themselves with dignity if faced with immediate danger.

The memorandum was presented by Kamothe Colony Forum members including President Mangesh Adhav, Women’s President Jayshree Jha, senior social activist Ranjana Sadolikar, and other office-bearers such as Bapu Salunkhe, Devanand Bathe, Geeta Kudalkar, Shubhangi Kharat, Shwetal Bhusari, Arpita Vani, Raghavendra Gattewar, Pravin Bhaltadak, Sunil Ade, Ashwini Suryavanshi, Pankaj Podutwar, Ushakiran Shinge, Sandeep Labde, Sheetal Dinkar, Supriya Mane, and Sanjeevani Totre during their visit to the police station.