Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde today impressed upon the states to increase women's representation in police force across the country. Addressing the media after presiding over the conference of Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police, DGPs, of states in New Delhi, Mr Shinde announced that 10 women police constables and two sub inspectors will be soon posted in every police station in Delhi to ensure better protection of women. He mentioned that there was a unanimity on the need for setting up fast-track courts in every state for speedy disposal of cases of sexual assaults on women. Mr Shinde pointed out that some states favoured intensifying vigil through various ways, including motorcycle patrolling.

Replying to a question, Mr Shinde said, there was a general consensus in the meeting on the definition of juvenile by bringing the age bar to 16 years from 18 years. On death penalty in rape cases, the Home Minister said all suggestions put forward by the Chief Secretaries and DGPs would be considered by the Government.

Expressing concern over low rate of conviction in cases of crimes against women, Mr Shinde emphasised on the need for introspection by investigators, prosecution and all other concerned authorities.

The day-long conference convened by the Centre in the wake of the gang rape of a girl in Delhi, discussed threadbare various ways to check crime against women and take steps for their protection.