Maharashtra Launches Advanced Cyber Labs and Women’s Safety Initiatives to Combat Digital Crimes

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently inaugurated state-of-the-art cyber laboratories for Mumbai Police, designed to tackle escalating cybercrimes. Speaking at the event, Fadnavis emphasized the labs’ role in enhancing digital forensics, particularly in recovering deleted or tampered electronic data, including mobile devices. The initiative includes forensic vans and specialized units to address crimes against women, alongside interceptor vans to monitor speeding violations.

As part of the safety push, every police station in Mumbai now houses a Women’s Help Room to assist victims of gender-based offenses. Fadnavis highlighted the labs’ ability to expedite investigations into online financial fraud, money laundering, and cyberattacks, stressing their importance under new criminal laws set to take effect in July.

The newly operational labs—located at DB Nagar, Worli, and Govandi police stations—leverage cutting-edge global technology to extract digital evidence efficiently. Five such facilities are planned for Mumbai, with three already active. Officials, including Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar and Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Iqbal Singh Chahal, attended the launch alongside Minister of State for Home (City) Yogesh Kadam.