RWA draws flak for security lapses

NEW DELHI: The Madhuban Colony, where seven masked men barged into the house of former director of prosecutions (NCT) on Thursday and smothered his son to death, is said to be a safe colony in east Delhi. After rising incidents of petty crimes, the residents requested the RWA to increase security in the area. But despite repeated requests, no action has been taken so far. 

A tenant living at the 250-family colony claims that it is easy to gain access to this "gated'' colony. "The four-gated colony is manned by three guards during daytime, and five at night. But just one guard can be seen in the entire block after 10pm. Most often, he is spotted noting down car registration numbers at the main gate, said the tenant, adding that it is easy to gain access to the DDA park, adjacent to the B block where the incident took place. 

A retired IG-level officer's family told TOI how the local RWA had charged Rs 2,000 a month for five guards, but only one would be visible at night. When TOI visited the RWA office, it declined to comment. "We will not be speaking to anyone on the incident as it is a sensitive issue,'' one of the office bearers said. 

According to local police, all attempts to secure the colony have been stone-walled. "We had asked for CCTV cameras to be put up at strategic locations. But none of them have been placed so far. We also asked the guards to be verified, along with masons, vendors and labourers who work in the area,'' said an officer. 

The locals, however, want police to play a more proactive role. Two assailants had opened fire at a constable at the Preet Vihar crossing on Wednesday night and another robbery took place in the neighbouring Ram Vihar area. "Lax policing adds to the crimes in the area,'' said Mukesh Singh, a local resident. 

with thanks : Times of India : LINK