Police use street plays to generate awareness

By Prateek Ichchhuk Sharma,Salyan, Dec. 2: Police have launched an awareness campaign to address social evils such as drug abuse, violence, crime, child marriage and superstitions through street plays in Salyan district.  

These performances highlight the problems invited by drug addiction within families, the impact of gender-based violence on victims and the regressive effects of social malpractices on communities.

In collaboration with local governments, these plays aim to reach communities directly, generating awareness, positive thinking and behavioural change. The performances coincide with the ongoing 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, amplifying efforts to reduce violence and addiction.

The street plays are set to be performed in the centres of all 10 local levels of Salyan, as well as in commercial hubs and schools. 

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Keshar Kumar Neupane said that the initiative was part of efforts to maintain peace and curb social evils. According to him, analysing past cases shows that raising awareness among children could significantly reduce crime rates.

“Unlike previous campaigns conducted indoors with limited participation, this time, the programmes are being staged in public spaces such as markets, municipal centres and open fields. Street plays attract large crowds, offering not only entertainment but also valuable lessons,” said DSP Neupane. 

Salyan reported 86 cases of violence and crime last year, with 16 cases registered in the first four months of the current fiscal year. Amid rising incidents of domestic violence and crimes against women and children, these plays have sent a positive message about prevention.

Manoj Singh of Sharada Municipality-2 stressed that street plays provide practical education beyond textbooks for students, suggesting that such initiatives should be integrated into school-level programmes.