Women Safety

Personal safety has become an issue of importance for everyone but especially for women. Violence against women is not just a women’s issue but a human rights issue. It concerns all stakeholders in the city. United Nations study for women indicates that ninety five percent of women feel unsafe in Delhi especially in public places. It is a sad reality that we are living in an increasing violent society. As I write this just heard the news that class sixth girl was raped by four boys in Delhi yesterday. The boys themselves are in the age group of 14-17 years. This proves that young girls are most vulnerable in the society (wherever they live) and face different kind of discrimination and violence. Also just heard that the girl, who was victim of acid attack in Ludhiana succumbed to her injuries. These incidents are depressing and shameful. India is a country of law abiding citizens and basically a peaceful country. It has always been a safe destination for domestic and international tourists. However, there are few aberrations and a few persons break the law. Around six million foreign tourists, who came to India in 2012, 40% of them being lady tourists, did not report any major problems in India during their visits. Surat in Gujarat has been declared the safest city for women in India with Shimla as second.

However, increased crime rates against women in Delhi since December 16, 2012 shows that a lot has to be done here. The study reflects that eve-teasing cases have increased by 700% and rapes have increased by 200%. The tough laws suggested by Justice Verma committee had little effect. I believe it is the mindset of men which should be changed as the harsh punishments was not able to put any fear in the minds of sexual offenders. With this article, I wish to share few tips for women which may be helpful for them to counter any kind of gender violence.

Women usually believe and they are generally taught that to hit on a groin or eye is the best option during any kind of attack. It is easily said than done in real situations. If it has been so easy India itself would not have reported rape every forty minutes. Moreover, the data is on incidents reported. There is no figure on cases which go unreported. The first things first, women should always be aware of surroundings. The element of a surprise is a strategy of attacker. The predator usually targets women who are unaware of what is happening around. The best option is to keep the eyes open and hands free. Secondly, trust your gut feeling or sixth sense and use it more. Most of women have it but they tend to ignore it. Avoid a person or a situation which does not feel safe. If you are followed while driving, change lanes and move to store or gas station as they generally have sufficient staff, are well lit and equipped by CCTV. Few years back in Safdarjung, New Delhi, it was the staff of petrol pump which helped the distressed and assaulted woman. However, if there is any confrontation with the attacker, try to be calm and do not panic as this is what the assaulter wants. Students of BMM of Lala Lajpat Rai College, Mumbai has started campaign, “Ab Mein Ek Bajaon” which distributes whistles to college girls who use this in case of eve teasing to catch public attention. Keep a blow whistle with you as it makes noise and catch attention. People can come for support asking, “Is there any problem.” If intruder enters your car, blow the horn as it will catch attention of passerby. Avoid lonely lanes in night, dark places and police stations in night. In case you sense trouble, keep pepper spray or stun gun ready. In case you are a self defense expert, save yourself physically. Look for an escape route rather than physical confrontation.