Patna, Jan. 13: Forget the public, the city’s not-so-friendly policemen don’t even spare their women counterparts.

Officials at the recently revamped women’s cell of Patna police have complained that male personnel give them the short shrift whenever their assistance is called for.

A member of the women’s cell, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they could understand the plight of the common man who has to go to a police station with a problem.

“We often have to go to a police station in connection with a case. But we are not treated properly. The men posted there don’t take us seriously and we are made to wait for a long time. There have been cases where we have had to wait for more than an hour just to get some basic information. This is a major problem for us, something which hits our efficiency and confidence,” the lady officer said.

The cell, under DSP (headquarters) Smita Suman, was revamped in December last year to expedite cases of crime and violence against women — ranging from eve-teasing to sexual harassment and dowry-related problems. A total of five sub-inspectors and eight constables have been included in the team.

The lady officer said personnel of the cell often have to take the help of their male counterparts in the police stations where a particular case has been lodged to find out the status of the investigation and other details.

“This is where we meet with stonewalling. Help is not forthcoming at all,” the officer said, blaming the attitude on the gender bias that is still prevalent across vast regions of the state.

The grievances were aired today at a meeting the cell’s officials had with senior superintendent of police B.S. Meena.

“The women’s cell officials and constables were asked about the work being done so far. Many suggestions were given and taken. One problem which they said they were facing is the uncooperative attitude of the policemen at the different police stations. The women are not listened to if they want information on a particular case. They are made to wait for hours in the police station for information. This is a serious problem and we are acting on it,” Meena said.

The SSP has ordered a wireless message to be sent to all police stations directing them to listen and help the women’s cell officers or face the music.

Meena said the police were ready to offer the cell extra privileges and equipment to carry out their job in a better way.

“We are giving them a phone extension at the cell and they will be given vehicles and more constables whenever they need. The cell is there to help the women and it should function properly without any hassles,” the officer said.