WARDHA

Wardha district has a well-established network of police stations strategically positioned across major towns, talukas, and key locations, including Wardha, Hinganghat, Arvi, Deoli, and Seloo. These police stations play a crucial role in maintaining law and order across urban, rural, and industrial regions.

The presence of law enforcement in significant areas such as Sevagram, known for its historical and Gandhian legacy, ensures crowd management and security during national events and gatherings. 

The general public primarily refers to the police as “Kaka,” while “Saheb” is also used, particularly in formal interactions.

Wardha Central Jail, established in 1845 by the British East India Company during the tenure of Governor-General Lord Hardinge, is among India's oldest correctional facilities. Designed to accommodate prisoners from across the region, it was considered one of the most modern and secure prisons in the Indian subcontinent at the time. Constructed using local stone and brick, the jail had a capacity of approximately 500 inmates and featured a central courtyard, a chapel, and a hospital.

During the Indian independence movement, Wardha Central Jail gained historical significance as a detention site for several prominent freedom fighters. Among them was Kanhaiyalal Ramchandra Innani, born on March 20, 1915, in Karanja Lad, Washim district. Initially working as a cotton merchant, he was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's ideology and became actively involved in the struggle for independence.

In 1940, when the Indian National Congress convened in Wardha and called for complete freedom from British rule, Kanhaiyalal participated in the 'Satyagraha Andolan' and was subsequently arrested, serving a six-month prison term. His commitment to the cause continued during the Quit India Movement of 1942, where he engaged in underground resistance activities, including distributing leaflets, sabotaging communication lines, and disrupting railway tracks. Moving from village to village, he delivered speeches against British rule, leading to another six-month imprisonment in Wardha Jail, where he met Vinoba Bhave for the first time.

Although specific records of prisoners from Wardha Jail during this period may not be detailed, the overall atmosphere of resistance contributed to its historical importance.

In addition to its role during the independence struggle, Wardha Jail faced scrutiny for its treatment of political prisoners, particularly in the 1930s when harsh measures were employed against those opposing British rule. Reports indicated that inmates endured severe conditions and mistreatment.

Locals say that Wardha’s urban areas offer a strong sense of safety, allowing women and children to travel freely within the city. Many women confidently ride their scooters late into the night, sometimes as late as midnight, while parents are at ease, allowing their children, including daughters, to move around independently at any time of day. This perception of security is one of the reasons families feel comfortable settling in the city.

While major incidents are rare, occasional reports of crimes against women and thefts have raised concerns. However, residents believe that the overall law enforcement presence and community vigilance contribute to maintaining safety in the district.