Women in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun are patrolling the streets of Thani village with sticks, keeping vigil in shifts from morning until late night. The residents say the move began around two months ago after alleged drug use and peddling made the area increasingly difficult and unsafe, particularly for women and children.

Lalita Dheeman, a local resident, said the women work in shifts from 7 am until as late as 2 am to maintain the vigil.

The women allege that bhang, ganja, weed, smack and liquor have been sold in the area for years, but claim the situation has now worsened. Sunita Sharma said residents came together to launch a campaign against the alleged drug menace.

They claim their efforts have already brought a visible change, with fewer people seen on the streets. The women say they will continue the vigil and approach police and the local administration if further support is needed.