Tamil Nadu's all-women Singappen Special Task Force begins its first phase of operations on Wednesday, 10 June, with 70 units rolling out across the state in a landmark push to strengthen safety for women and children. The initiative, introduced by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, is designed to eventually expand to 270 units statewide in a phased rollout.

Deployment and Coverage

Every district in Tamil Nadu will have at least one dedicated Singappen unit from day one. Chennai, given its scale and population density, will see the largest concentration — 12 units stationed at strategic locations within Greater Chennai Police limits. The Tambaram and Avadi Police Commissionerates will each receive four units, while other commissionerates across the state will get two units each.

Force Composition and Operations

Each Singappen unit will initially consist of two women Sub-Inspectors and one woman police constable assigned to patrol duties. To operationalise the first phase, the Tamil Nadu Police Department has selected 140 women Sub-Inspectors and 420 women police personnel from across the state. Units will function round the clock on a rotational basis, ensuring continuous presence and rapid response capability. Male officers may assist in support roles such as driving and logistics when required.

Infrastructure and Vehicles

The state government has approved procurement of a dedicated fleet comprising 319 four-wheelers and 101 two-wheelers exclusively for the Singappen STF. This dedicated fleet is intended to improve patrol coverage and reduce response times to incidents involving women and children.

Communication Channels and Public Access

Dedicated communication channels — including special WhatsApp groups and dedicated mobile numbers linked directly to Singappen units — are being finalised and will be announced shortly. Until those are operational, women facing emergencies have been advised to contact the police emergency control room at helpline number 100.

Significance and What Comes Next

Police officials described the initiative as a step toward preventive policing, faster incident response, and stronger public confidence through a dedicated women-led security network. The government has positioned Singappen as a central pillar of its broader agenda to create a safer environment for women and children across Tamil Nadu. With 70 units active in Phase 1 and a target of 270 units at full rollout, the force's eventual scale will make it one of the largest specialised women's policing formations in any Indian state.