Dehradun, Aug. 30 -- Thani village, located on Old Mussoorie Road in Dehradun, has been drawing attention for a unique citizen-led initiative, with women residents taking up night patrols to keep the village streets safe from drug trafficking and people coming in search of narcotics.

As evening falls and households begin preparing dinner, another routine begins outside. Women who have finished their household chores or returned from work pick up sticks and patrol the village lanes. Some take up the evening shift, while others come out late at night.

For several hours, they keep a close watch on the village, stopping unfamiliar faces and asking a few simple questions: Where are you going? Whom have you come to meet? Why are you here?

Ne...