Building Safer Streets Under Bidisha Kalita’s Leadership

An all-women motorbike squad

Kolkata Police launched the Winners Team on 11 July 2018 to help prevent crimes and harassment against women in public spaces. The squad patrols roads, educational institutions, parks, shopping malls, Metro stations, night-time hubs and other crowded locations where women may be vulnerable.

Training and field responsibilities

Members are selected for riding ability, fitness and resilience, then receive training in physical conditioning, motorcycle riding, weapons handling and unarmed combat. The team works in pairs and supports public safety through visible patrols, night operations, assistance to people in distress, help for lost children and support for elderly citizens.

Expansion and wider influence

The magazine reports that 50 recruits joined in 2025, taking the team’s strength to 100 and widening its coverage across Kolkata Police divisions. Members also receive training on women-centric provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the POCSO Act. The Winners model has inspired similar initiatives in other parts of West Bengal and beyond.