Mumbai: In a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting women’s participation in sports, the Maharashtra government is considering a state-wide uniform policy to ensure basic amenities and enhanced safety measures at sports grounds across the state.&nbsp;The move comes after concerns were raised during the 2026 Budget Session regarding the lack of adequate toilet facilities for women athletes at several sports venues.&nbsp;Acting on an assurance given in the legislature, a detailed review meeting was held on Tuesday with officials from various departments to assess the current situation and chart a roadmap for improvement.&nbsp;During the meeting, suggestions were made to develop a comprehensive policy for sports ground infrastructure, with a special focus on the needs of women athletes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Key proposals include the construction of model toilet facilities, installation of adequate lighting systems, creation of separate changing rooms, and deployment of CCTV cameras to enhance security at sports venues.&nbsp;Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities often poses challenges for aspiring athletes, particularly women and girls.&nbsp;The government emphasised that providing a safe, dignified, and supportive environment is essential for encouraging greater participation in sports.&nbsp;Apart from physical infrastructure, discussions also highlighted the importance of quality coaching, nutritional support, financial assistance, access to training facilities, and social acceptance for the overall development of women athletes.&nbsp;Authorities believe that access to basic facilities such as clean toilets, changing rooms, and secure training environments can significantly improve participation rates and help athletes focus on performance without facing avoidable hardships.&nbsp;As part of the initiative, officials have been directed to prepare a detailed action plan for creating the required infrastructure at sports grounds across Maharashtra and ensure its effective implementation. The proposed policy is expected to benefit thousands of women athletes training in urban as well as rural parts of the state.

Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions, but inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities poses challenges for aspiring women athletes.

Mumbai: In a major step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting women’s participation in sports, the Maharashtra government is considering a state-wide uniform policy to ensure basic amenities and enhanced safety measures at sports grounds across the state. The move comes after concerns were raised during the 2026 Budget Session regarding the lack of adequate toilet facilities for women athletes at several sports venues. Acting on an assurance given in the legislature, a detailed review meeting was held on Tuesday with officials from various departments to assess the current situation and chart a roadmap for improvement. During the meeting, suggestions were made to develop a comprehensive policy for sports ground infrastructure, with a special focus on the needs of women athletes. Key proposals include the construction of model toilet facilities, installation of adequate lighting systems, creation of separate changing rooms, and deployment of CCTV cameras to enhance security at sports venues. Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions. However, inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities often poses challenges for aspiring athletes, particularly women and girls. The government emphasised that providing a safe, dignified, and supportive environment is essential for encouraging greater participation in sports. Apart from physical infrastructure, discussions also highlighted the importance of quality coaching, nutritional support, financial assistance, access to training facilities, and social acceptance for the overall development of women athletes. Authorities believe that access to basic facilities such as clean toilets, changing rooms, and secure training environments can significantly improve participation rates and help athletes focus on performance without facing avoidable hardships. As part of the initiative, officials have been directed to prepare a detailed action plan for creating the required infrastructure at sports grounds across Maharashtra and ensure its effective implementation. The proposed policy is expected to benefit thousands of women athletes training in urban as well as rural parts of the state.

Officials noted that women athletes from Maharashtra have consistently delivered outstanding performances at both national and international competitions, but inadequate infrastructure at grassroots and district-level sports facilities poses challenges for aspiring women athletes.

Maharashtra plans uniform sports ground policy to improve safety and facilities for women athletes

A female police officer in Hyderabad stood on the city's street past midnight in ordinary clothes to understand the safety challenges faced by women. She was approached by 40 men in a span of three hours, revealing the state of things. Most of the men were either drunk or high on drugs. Instead of being arrested, they were counselled and let off with a warning. Commissioner of Police of Malkajgiri, Hyderabad, Sumathi, stood at a bus stop between 12:30 am and 3:30 am to know how safe the roads are for women after dark. The aim was to know how things were first hand instead of only relying on formal complaints. She came across disturbing behaviour by the men. Nearly 40 men went up to her and made inappropriate suggestions. According to reports, most of them were roaming around after consuming alcohol, while some had also taken ganja. Most of them were students and younger men.&nbsp;Following the operation, the men were identified and taken to the police station. No complaints were filed against them, and it was decided to let them off with strict warnings. They were also counselled on their behaviour with women in public areas. Women in Hyderabad are impressed with Sumathi for taking such an initiative to see what women go through. The female officer is known for such on-ground methods. She is a senior IPS officer of the Telangana cadre, and went undercover as a Deputy Superintendent of police near Kazipet railway station 25 years ago for a similar operation. She also served as Chief of the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) before being appointed as Commissioner of Police, Malkajgiri. Sumathi was also involved in the operation of the surrender of several top Maoists led by Devuji and others.<h2>Netizens react to female safety operation in Hyderabad</h2>Reacting to the story, netizens said that the operation reveals the scale of the problem in the country, and that the issue is prevalent in other states as well. A user wrote, "This shows the pathetic state of Police and Law and Order in the country. No state is better than the other!!" Another wrote, "40 men in 3 hours? This experiment exposes the scale of the problem. Counselling drunk harassers is fine for first-timers, but India needs visible consequences too." The commenter added, "Hats off to the lady officer for her courage. Safety at night remains a national shame we must fix urgently." Another said to ensure women's safety in India, men need to be barred from roaming on the streets at night. “For women to be safe at night, India would need a curfew rule for men requiring them to stay indoors from midnight to 4 am.”

Commissioner of Police of Malkajgiri, Hyderabad, came across men roaming the streets at night while she stood alone at a bus stop. At least 40 of them approached her, most of whom were young men and students. The operation was meant to gauge the safety issues women face on the city's streets.

A female police officer in Hyderabad stood on the city's street past midnight in ordinary clothes to understand the safety challenges faced by women. She was approached by 40 men in a span of three hours, revealing the state of things. Most of the men were either drunk or high on drugs. Instead of being arrested, they were counselled and let off with a warning. Commissioner of Police of Malkajgiri, Hyderabad, Sumathi, stood at a bus stop between 12:30 am and 3:30 am to know how safe the roads are for women after dark. The aim was to know how things were first hand instead of only relying on formal complaints. She came across disturbing behaviour by the men. Nearly 40 men went up to her and made inappropriate suggestions. According to reports, most of them were roaming around after consuming alcohol, while some had also taken ganja. Most of them were students and younger men. Following the operation, the men were identified and taken to the police station. No complaints were filed against them, and it was decided to let them off with strict warnings. They were also counselled on their behaviour with women in public areas. Women in Hyderabad are impressed with Sumathi for taking such an initiative to see what women go through. The female officer is known for such on-ground methods. She is a senior IPS officer of the Telangana cadre, and went undercover as a Deputy Superintendent of police near Kazipet railway station 25 years ago for a similar operation. She also served as Chief of the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) before being appointed as Commissioner of Police, Malkajgiri. Sumathi was also involved in the operation of the surrender of several top Maoists led by Devuji and others. Netizens react to female safety operation in Hyderabad Reacting to the story, netizens said that the operation reveals the scale of the problem in the country, and that the issue is prevalent in other states as well. A user wrote, "This shows the pathetic state of Police and Law and Order in the country. No state is better than the other!!" Another wrote, "40 men in 3 hours? This experiment exposes the scale of the problem. Counselling drunk harassers is fine for first-timers, but India needs visible consequences too." The commenter added, "Hats off to the lady officer for her courage. Safety at night remains a national shame we must fix urgently." Another said to ensure women's safety in India, men need to be barred from roaming on the streets at night. “For women to be safe at night, India would need a curfew rule for men requiring them to stay indoors from midnight to 4 am.”

Commissioner of Police of Malkajgiri, Hyderabad, came across men roaming the streets at night while she stood alone at a bus stop. At least 40 of them approached her, most of whom were young men and students. The operation was meant to gauge the safety issues women face on the city's streets.

Female undercover officer harassed by 40 men in three hours during night operation in Hyderabad

A new report released by the United Nations Women, The Nerve, and partners has highlighted a sharp rise in increasingly sophisticated forms of online violence against women in public life, particularly journalists and media professionals. The report, Tipping Point: Online violence impacts, manifestations and redress in the AI age, reveals that digital abuse is not only widespread but often coordinated and strategic, aimed at silencing women and undermining their credibility.According to the report’s findings, 12 per cent of women human rights defenders, activists, journalists and public communicators reported experiencing non-consensual sharing of personal images, including intimate content. Around six per cent said they had been targeted by deepfakes, while nearly one in three reported receiving unsolicited sexual advances online.The report highlighted that about 41 per cent of respondents said they self-censor on social media to avoid abuse, while 19 per cent self-censored in their professional work. Among women journalists, the figures are higher: 45 per cent reported self-censorship online in 2025, up sharply from 2020, while nearly 22 per cent reported self-censorship in their work.At the same time, more women are seeking accountability. The report notes that 22 per cent of women journalists now report incidents to law enforcement, double the rate in 2020. Nearly 14 per cent are pursuing legal action against perpetrators or enablers.The consequences of such incidents extend beyond professional life. Nearly 25 per cent of respondents reported anxiety or depression linked to online abuse, while about 13 per cent reported that they had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Despite rising awareness, legal protections remain limited. The World Bank estimates that fewer than 40 per cent of countries have laws addressing cyber harassment, leaving roughly 1.8 billion women and girls without adequate safeguards.

A UN Women report warns of rising online abuse targeting women, driving self-censorship, mental health harm, and exposing major gaps in global legal protections.

A new report released by the United Nations Women, The Nerve, and partners has highlighted a sharp rise in increasingly sophisticated forms of online violence against women in public life, particularly journalists and media professionals. The report, Tipping Point: Online violence impacts, manifestations and redress in the AI age, reveals that digital abuse is not only widespread but often coordinated and strategic, aimed at silencing women and undermining their credibility. According to the report’s findings, 12 per cent of women human rights defenders, activists, journalists and public communicators reported experiencing non-consensual sharing of personal images, including intimate content. Around six per cent said they had been targeted by deepfakes, while nearly one in three reported receiving unsolicited sexual advances online. The report highlighted that about 41 per cent of respondents said they self-censor on social media to avoid abuse, while 19 per cent self-censored in their professional work. Among women journalists, the figures are higher: 45 per cent reported self-censorship online in 2025, up sharply from 2020, while nearly 22 per cent reported self-censorship in their work. At the same time, more women are seeking accountability. The report notes that 22 per cent of women journalists now report incidents to law enforcement, double the rate in 2020. Nearly 14 per cent are pursuing legal action against perpetrators or enablers. The consequences of such incidents extend beyond professional life. Nearly 25 per cent of respondents reported anxiety or depression linked to online abuse, while about 13 per cent reported that they had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite rising awareness, legal protections remain limited. The World Bank estimates that fewer than 40 per cent of countries have laws addressing cyber harassment, leaving roughly 1.8 billion women and girls without adequate safeguards.

A UN Women report warns of rising online abuse targeting women, driving self-censorship, mental health harm, and exposing major gaps in global legal protections.

Deepfakes, harassment, fear: UN report highlights dark reality women journalists face online

With just a few days left before the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (April 26) launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, accusing it of “betraying” women in the state and vowing strict action against criminals if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) comes to power.&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Bangaon, Modi described the current regime as “Jungle Raj” and outlined key promises focused on women’s empowerment. He alleged that women in Bengal have suffered the most under the TMC government, citing incidents in Sandeshkhali and claiming rising cases of crime and disappearances.&nbsp;“The women of Bengal are the biggest victims of TMC’s ‘Jungle Raj’. They have faced betrayal and atrocities. After May 4, a BJP government will hunt down every goon and rapist and ensure accountability. The BJP guarantees both security and opportunity for women,” he said.&nbsp;The Prime Minister also announced that a BJP-led government would deposit ₹36,000 annually into women’s bank accounts and implement 33% reservation for women in government jobs. He added that the “double-engine government” would further strengthen benefits for women in the state.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-petitions-rajya-sabha-chairman-seeking-termination-of-7-mps-who-switched-to-bjp-1777201688283">AAP sends petition to Rajya Sabha chairman seeking termination of 7 MPs who switched to BJP</a>&nbsp;The remarks came a day after TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she would take legal action against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his “violent remarks,” which were similar to what the Prime Minister said on Sunday.&nbsp;Speaking at a rally in Arambagh, Shah had warned of strict action against alleged TMC “goons” after the elections. Responding to this, Banerjee questioned his language, saying such statements were unacceptable and would not help the BJP win Bengal. Shah had said, “I’m warning Didi’s goons not to step out on the 29th. If people are troubled, after the 5th, we will act firmly.” His comments drew sharp reactions from the ruling party.&nbsp;The political contest has intensified following a high voter turnout of over 91% in the first phase, one of the highest since Independence, according to the Election Commission of India. Observers link the surge in participation to shifting voter sentiment, prompting parties to ramp up campaigning ahead of the next phase.

The Prime Minister also announced that a BJP-led government would deposit  Rs 36,000 annually into women’s bank accounts and implement 33% reservation for women in government jobs. 

With just a few days left before the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (April 26) launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, accusing it of “betraying” women in the state and vowing strict action against criminals if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) comes to power. Addressing a rally in Bangaon, Modi described the current regime as “Jungle Raj” and outlined key promises focused on women’s empowerment. He alleged that women in Bengal have suffered the most under the TMC government, citing incidents in Sandeshkhali and claiming rising cases of crime and disappearances. “The women of Bengal are the biggest victims of TMC’s ‘Jungle Raj’. They have faced betrayal and atrocities. After May 4, a BJP government will hunt down every goon and rapist and ensure accountability. The BJP guarantees both security and opportunity for women,” he said. The Prime Minister also announced that a BJP-led government would deposit ₹36,000 annually into women’s bank accounts and implement 33% reservation for women in government jobs. He added that the “double-engine government” would further strengthen benefits for women in the state. Also Read: AAP sends petition to Rajya Sabha chairman seeking termination of 7 MPs who switched to BJP The remarks came a day after TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she would take legal action against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his “violent remarks,” which were similar to what the Prime Minister said on Sunday. Speaking at a rally in Arambagh, Shah had warned of strict action against alleged TMC “goons” after the elections. Responding to this, Banerjee questioned his language, saying such statements were unacceptable and would not help the BJP win Bengal. Shah had said, “I’m warning Didi’s goons not to step out on the 29th. If people are troubled, after the 5th, we will act firmly.” His comments drew sharp reactions from the ruling party. The political contest has intensified following a high voter turnout of over 91% in the first phase, one of the highest since Independence, according to the Election Commission of India. Observers link the surge in participation to shifting voter sentiment, prompting parties to ramp up campaigning ahead of the next phase.

The Prime Minister also announced that a BJP-led government would deposit &nbsp;Rs 36,000 annually into women’s bank accounts and implement 33% reservation for women in government jobs.&nbsp;

PM Modi slams TMC on women’s safety, vows action against ‘goons and rapists’

Bengaluru has emerged as India&rsquo;s top city for women in 2024, surpassing Chennai, according to the Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) report released by workplace culture consulting firm Avtar Group. The report shows Bengaluru&rsquo;s inclusive, adaptable, and empowering environment for women to thrive.&nbsp;
The Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) index showcases cities that promote women's growth, offering a guide for better development. It is based on data from sources like CMIE, the World Bank, and surveys with 1,672 women from 60 cities.
<h2 dir="ltr">Key factors driving Bengaluru&rsquo;s rise</h2>
The city scores highest in areas such as job opportunities for women, infrastructure, and caregiving support. The presence of a strong job market and professional growth options make it the leading city for women in India. Its focus on creating a sustainable and resilient environment for women professionals has helped it achieve the top place.&nbsp;
One hundred and twenty cities across India were considered for the study, based on their economic contribution to the country.&nbsp;
Dr Saundarya Rajesh, founder-president of Avtar Group, said, "Cities are the foundations of opportunity. They shape how women live, work, and thrive. So, a clear understanding of the core principles and cultural fabric of our cities is crucial for advancing women's progress and inclusion. Avtar's annual index 'Top Cities for Women in India"
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/empowering-rural-women-in-india-e-commerce-as-a-catalyst-for-holistic-growth-777065" rel="dofollow"> Empowering rural women in India: E-commerce as a catalyst for holistic growth&nbsp;</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What is Avtar? </h2>
 Avtar, founded by Dr Saundarya Rajesh in 2000, is a leading consulting firm in India that helps companies create diverse and inclusive workplaces. It is the largest provider of second career opportunities for women and is ISO 20700 certified. Avtar runs important projects like the "100 Best Companies for Women in India" (BCWI) and the "Most Inclusive Companies Index" (MICI), which help improve job opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups.
<figure class="image"><img alt="Top Cities for Women in India 2024&rsquo; Survey conducted by the Avtar Group" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/SYUUbGuFkWXqMTY4Yg0c.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Top Cities for Women in India 2024&rsquo; Survey conducted by the Avtar Group Photograph: (ANI)</figcaption>
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For more details, refer to the full report: Avtar Group. <a href="https://www.avtarinc.com/" rel="dofollow">https://www.avtarinc.com/</a>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-rajasthans-villages-women-are-weaving-not-just-rugs-but-dreams-empowering-communities-719428" rel="dofollow">In Rajasthan&rsquo;s villages, women are weaving not just rugs but dreams, empowering communities</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Top 10 Cities for women in 2024: Regional and state wise analysis&nbsp;</h2>
The report looked at 120 cities in India and ranked them based on their City Inclusion Score (CIS). The score is derived from three pillars: social inclusion, industrial inclusion, and citizen experience. Mumbai ranked third, and the national capital, Delhi, is listed eighth, but South India has the highest level of gender inclusivity.&nbsp;
A total of 16 cities from this region made it to the list of the top 25 cities in the &lsquo;Top Cities for Women in India&rsquo; (TCWI) survey by the Avtar Group.
<ul>
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The South emerged as the most inclusive region, with Bengaluru and Chennai leading the way. Kerala, with an average CIS of 20.89, topped the state rankings, followed closely by Telangana and Maharashtra. 
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Mumbai ranked third, and the national capital, Delhi, is listed eighth, but South India has the highest level of gender inclusivity.&nbsp; 
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Hyderabad and Pune claimed one of the top five spots.
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Other cities in the top 10 include Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Gurugram, and Coimbatore. (With inputs from agencies)
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India News: The city tops in job opportunities, infrastructure, and caregiving support, making it the top choice for women in India due to its strong job market.

Bengaluru has emerged as India’s top city for women in 2024, surpassing Chennai, according to the Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) report released by workplace culture consulting firm Avtar Group. The report shows Bengaluru’s inclusive, adaptable, and empowering environment for women to thrive. The Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) index showcases cities that promote women's growth, offering a guide for better development. It is based on data from sources like CMIE, the World Bank, and surveys with 1,672 women from 60 cities. Key factors driving Bengaluru’s rise The city scores highest in areas such as job opportunities for women, infrastructure, and caregiving support. The presence of a strong job market and professional growth options make it the leading city for women in India. Its focus on creating a sustainable and resilient environment for women professionals has helped it achieve the top place. One hundred and twenty cities across India were considered for the study, based on their economic contribution to the country. Dr Saundarya Rajesh, founder-president of Avtar Group, said, "Cities are the foundations of opportunity. They shape how women live, work, and thrive. So, a clear understanding of the core principles and cultural fabric of our cities is crucial for advancing women's progress and inclusion. Avtar's annual index 'Top Cities for Women in India" Also read: Empowering rural women in India: E-commerce as a catalyst for holistic growth What is Avtar? Avtar, founded by Dr Saundarya Rajesh in 2000, is a leading consulting firm in India that helps companies create diverse and inclusive workplaces. It is the largest provider of second career opportunities for women and is ISO 20700 certified. Avtar runs important projects like the "100 Best Companies for Women in India" (BCWI) and the "Most Inclusive Companies Index" (MICI), which help improve job opportunities for women and other underrepresented groups. Top Cities for Women in India 2024’ Survey conducted by the Avtar Group Photograph: (ANI) For more details, refer to the full report: Avtar Group. https://www.avtarinc.com/ Also Read: In Rajasthan’s villages, women are weaving not just rugs but dreams, empowering communities Top 10 Cities for women in 2024: Regional and state wise analysis The report looked at 120 cities in India and ranked them based on their City Inclusion Score (CIS). The score is derived from three pillars: social inclusion, industrial inclusion, and citizen experience. Mumbai ranked third, and the national capital, Delhi, is listed eighth, but South India has the highest level of gender inclusivity. A total of 16 cities from this region made it to the list of the top 25 cities in the ‘Top Cities for Women in India’ (TCWI) survey by the Avtar Group. The South emerged as the most inclusive region, with Bengaluru and Chennai leading the way. Kerala, with an average CIS of 20.89, topped the state rankings, followed closely by Telangana and Maharashtra. Mumbai ranked third, and the national capital, Delhi, is listed eighth, but South India has the highest level of gender inclusivity. Hyderabad and Pune claimed one of the top five spots. Other cities in the top 10 include Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Gurugram, and Coimbatore. (With inputs from agencies)

Best Indian city for working women is...

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions.

The commission has also recommended that female security personnel should be placed on school buses. As per the commission's proposal, recruiting more female staff at women’s clothing stores will improve their&nbsp;safety.

These suggestions were presented in a meeting held on October 28 in Lucknow, where commission members explored various ways to improve women's safety, The Times of India reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-supreme-court-rules-aligarh-muslim-university-is-entitled-to-minority-status-774537">Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian SC</a>

“The discussions are preliminary. Feasibility of these proposals is yet to be decided. Once approved, these proposals will be submitted to the govt to draft a policy for ground-level implementation,” a commission member was cited saying by The Times of India.

Meanwhile, Shamli district probation officer Hamid Hussain has asked local businesses to start implementing new safety measures including hiring female trainers or instructors in gyms, drama, and yoga centres for women, as well as installing CCTV systems with DVRs.

Hussain told TOI that school buses will now need to have a female security guard or teacher. Meanwhile, boutiques are directed to hire female tailors to take measurements of women, with CCTV cameras in place for added security.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-do-justice-indian-americans-seek-elon-musks-help-for-h-1b-visa-reforms-774563">'Please do justice': Indian Americans seek Elon Musk's help for H-1B visa</a>

“Boutique centres must employ female tailors for taking measurements of women, with active CCTV monitoring. Additionally, coaching centres are required to have CCTV surveillance and proper restroom facilities. Stores selling women-specific clothing and accessories must also employ female staff to assist customers,” Hussain said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions.

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions. The commission has also recommended that female security personnel should be placed on school buses. As per the commission's proposal, recruiting more female staff at women’s clothing stores will improve their safety. These suggestions were presented in a meeting held on October 28 in Lucknow, where commission members explored various ways to improve women's safety, The Times of India reported. Also read: Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian SC “The discussions are preliminary. Feasibility of these proposals is yet to be decided. Once approved, these proposals will be submitted to the govt to draft a policy for ground-level implementation,” a commission member was cited saying by The Times of India. Meanwhile, Shamli district probation officer Hamid Hussain has asked local businesses to start implementing new safety measures including hiring female trainers or instructors in gyms, drama, and yoga centres for women, as well as installing CCTV systems with DVRs. Hussain told TOI that school buses will now need to have a female security guard or teacher. Meanwhile, boutiques are directed to hire female tailors to take measurements of women, with CCTV cameras in place for added security. Also read: 'Please do justice': Indian Americans seek Elon Musk's help for H-1B visa “Boutique centres must employ female tailors for taking measurements of women, with active CCTV monitoring. Additionally, coaching centres are required to have CCTV surveillance and proper restroom facilities. Stores selling women-specific clothing and accessories must also employ female staff to assist customers,” Hussain said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: UP panel suggests 'no male tailor should take women’s measurements' for safety

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur.&nbsp;

Sitharaman invoked how late Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa was humiliated in the state Assembly in 1989.

She recounted the incident when Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

“I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Then she hadn't become chief minister, Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in Tamil Nadu in the assembly. She was the leader of the opposition. The DMK members who were seated there heckled her and laughed at her... Has the DMK forgotten Jayalalithaa? You pulled her saree, you demeaned her. That day Jayalalithaa took an oath that she will never come to the House unless she becomes the CM. Two years later, she returned as the CM of Tamil Nadu,” she said.

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&nbsp;

She also slammed MP Kanimozhi and reminded how the DMK had watched Jayalalithaa silently being humiliated in the assembly.

<h2>Congress, NCP and DMK MPs stage walkout</h2>

Congress, NCP and DMK MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha as Sitharaman was speaking on the no-confidence motion.

"People moved no confidence against UPA in 2014 and 2019 and defeated them. The situation will be the same in 2024. HM said yesterday, what was the need to change the name of UPA? They have an amazing unity. It is tough to understand if they are fighting against each other or together," she said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-speaks-on-manipur-issue-says-centre-and-state-working-together-to-restore-peace-624288">PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace</a>

She said that Sengol was ignored for decades by opposition parties and now PM Modi has restored it to its rightful place in Lok Sabha.

"When PM Modi restored it (Sengol) to its rightful place in Lok Sabha, that became an issue, that is an insult of the Tamils. The Sengol was ignored for decades. The Sengol was lost in history and kept in some museum," she said.

"The Kashi Tamil Sangamam showed how Tamil Nadu and Kashi have very deep connections. The first time you heard Tamil being quoted in the United Nations. In 'Mann ki Baat', PM has used Tamil so many times," she added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur.

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur. Sitharaman invoked how late Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa was humiliated in the state Assembly in 1989. She recounted the incident when Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in the Tamil Nadu assembly. “I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Then she hadn't become chief minister, Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in Tamil Nadu in the assembly. She was the leader of the opposition. The DMK members who were seated there heckled her and laughed at her... Has the DMK forgotten Jayalalithaa? You pulled her saree, you demeaned her. That day Jayalalithaa took an oath that she will never come to the House unless she becomes the CM. Two years later, she returned as the CM of Tamil Nadu,” she said. #WATCH | FM says, "I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in Tamil Nadu Assembly. Then she hadn't become CM… pic.twitter.com/DRUTV4qeIg — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2023 × She also slammed MP Kanimozhi and reminded how the DMK had watched Jayalalithaa silently being humiliated in the assembly. Congress, NCP and DMK MPs stage walkout Congress, NCP and DMK MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha as Sitharaman was speaking on the no-confidence motion. "People moved no confidence against UPA in 2014 and 2019 and defeated them. The situation will be the same in 2024. HM said yesterday, what was the need to change the name of UPA? They have an amazing unity. It is tough to understand if they are fighting against each other or together," she said. Also read: PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace She said that Sengol was ignored for decades by opposition parties and now PM Modi has restored it to its rightful place in Lok Sabha. "When PM Modi restored it (Sengol) to its rightful place in Lok Sabha, that became an issue, that is an insult of the Tamils. The Sengol was ignored for decades. The Sengol was lost in history and kept in some museum," she said. "The Kashi Tamil Sangamam showed how Tamil Nadu and Kashi have very deep connections. The first time you heard Tamil being quoted in the United Nations. In 'Mann ki Baat', PM has used Tamil so many times," she added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in assembly,' recalls Nirmala Sitharaman, hits back at DMK on women's safety

India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women.

Reportedly, Delhi saw a more than 40 per cent rise in crimes against women in 2021, compared to a year prior. A total of 13,500 crimes were reported against the fairer sex in 2021, compared to a little under 10,000 in 2020.

Of the 43,414 crimes reported against women in 19 major cities across the country, Delhi accounted for 32.20 per cent of the cases, suggesting that law and order authorities were not working properly to create a safe environment for women.

Amongst the category of crimes, over 3,948 cases of abduction and kidnapping were reported while 2,022 cases of assault on women with an intent to outrage their modesty were registered by the Bureau.

&nbsp;

Read more |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ncrb-data-shows-increase-in-deaths-by-suicide-in-2021-511188">India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021</a>

Similarly, 1,357 reported cases were under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (girl child victims only) while 833 cases of girl child rape came from the capital city alone.&nbsp;

However, what may come as most surprising is the cases of dowry deaths, despite a concerted campaign by the central and state government to discourage dowry.

According to the data, the national capital witnessed 136 cases of dowry deaths, which again accounted for 36.36 per cent of the total cases.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-thought-pm-modi-was-a-crude-man-but-he-showed-humanity-ghulam-nabi-azad-511185">'I thought PM Modi was a crude man but he showed humanity': Ghulam Nabi Azad&nbsp;</a>

Delhi was followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru in the list with the two metropolitan cities accounting for 12.76 per cent and 7.2 per cent of the total crimes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women.

India's capital city of Delhi has a notorious reputation for being unsafe for women. Recently released data by the country's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has done little to improve on the said reputation by terming Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city in India for women. Reportedly, Delhi saw a more than 40 per cent rise in crimes against women in 2021, compared to a year prior. A total of 13,500 crimes were reported against the fairer sex in 2021, compared to a little under 10,000 in 2020. Of the 43,414 crimes reported against women in 19 major cities across the country, Delhi accounted for 32.20 per cent of the cases, suggesting that law and order authorities were not working properly to create a safe environment for women. Amongst the category of crimes, over 3,948 cases of abduction and kidnapping were reported while 2,022 cases of assault on women with an intent to outrage their modesty were registered by the Bureau. Read more | India: NCRB data shows increase in deaths by suicide in 2021 Similarly, 1,357 reported cases were under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (girl child victims only) while 833 cases of girl child rape came from the capital city alone. However, what may come as most surprising is the cases of dowry deaths, despite a concerted campaign by the central and state government to discourage dowry. According to the data, the national capital witnessed 136 cases of dowry deaths, which again accounted for 36.36 per cent of the total cases. Read more: 'I thought PM Modi was a crude man but he showed humanity': Ghulam Nabi Azad Delhi was followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru in the list with the two metropolitan cities accounting for 12.76 per cent and 7.2 per cent of the total crimes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: NCRB report terms Delhi as the most unsafe metropolitan city for women

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed&nbsp;outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-famed-kashmir-silk-carpets-get-qr-code-based-authentication-454624" hreflang="en">India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication</a>

''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed&nbsp;at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar.&nbsp;

The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their&nbsp;centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-famed-kashmir-silk-carpets-get-qr-code-based-authentication-454624" hreflang="en">India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication</a>

''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient&nbsp;vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer.&nbsp;

The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has started a women safety squad in Srinagar city to help women in distress. The main purpose of the squad will be to ensure the security of girls especially around schools, colleges, universities, coaching centres, and other places. The Jammu and Kashmir Police say having a woman safety squad in the Srinagar city will make the women feel much safer. The girls who were being harassed outside coaching centres or colleges will stop now as the females now have a dedicated squad they can report to if the need arises. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''I am extremely happy that this step has been taken in Srinagar city. There was a need for this, to have a women safety squad that will be dedicated to the security of women in the city. Since offline classes have been started, coaching centres, schools, and colleges are opening and a lot of people have asked us that the girls are being harassed at several places, and with the recent acid attack in Srinagar, we took this step. The sole purpose of the squad is to make the females in the city feel safer. '' said Sujit Kumar, DIG Srinagar. The women squad would be patrolling all over the city during the day, especially around the educational institutions. The heads of the Institutions have been asked to contact the squad if any incident takes place outside their centres. This step has been taken after a recent acid attack took place in Srinagar city. The Jammu and Kashmir Police felt that there is a need for having a dedicated squad for the females of the city. Also read | India’s famed Kashmir silk carpets get QR code based authentication ''The Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken a great step by having this special women safety squad in the city for the security of women. After the recent acid attack in Srinagar city, Police felt there is a need for this. We have been deputed here at two spots outside the coaching centres in Hyderpora and I am in charge of it. We have sufficient vehicles and female squads to make sure the girls feel safer. The girls are feeling much safer and are happy that we have started patrolling. '' said a lady police officer. The step has been appreciated by everyone in the city, especially the girl students. They felt there was a need for having a special female squad outside the educational institutions. Women feel it easier to report a crime if the Police officers are females too.

Jammu and Kashmir police start women safety squad in Srinagar

Women in the United Kingdom are boycotting clubs and pubs after a surge in needle attacks and cases of drink spiking.

Calling it a 'girls night in,' young women are choosing to stay at their homes instead of going out.

Thousands of women have signed a petition urging the government to make it compulsory for nightclubs to thoroughly search guests on entry.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-british-women-report-needle-spiking-in-nightclubs-422789/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

An online campaign is also gaining momentum in Bristol, Brighton, and Nottingham which have a lot of universities. It aims at raising awareness about ''date rape'' drugs.

Victims claim they were stabbed with a needle in their leg, wrists, and back and awoke with no remembrance of the previous night.

UK's National Police Chiefs’ Council had said last week that almost 200 cases of drink spiking were reported to police forces across the UK over the past two months.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nearly-200-cases-of-drink-spiking-reported-in-last-two-months-423763">Also read |&nbsp;UK: Nearly 200 cases of drink spiking reported in last two months</a>

Deputy chief constable Jason Harwin had said ''We are working at pace with forces, law enforcement agencies such as the NCA [National Crime Agency] and other partners including the Home Office and universities to understand the scale of offending, establish any links between the allegations and ultimately bring any identified offenders to justice.''

The murder of Londoner Sarah Everard by a Metropolitan Police officer had prompted an outpouring of grief and rage, with protests and demands for action to end violence against women.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panic-grips-uk-nightclubs-amid-reports-of-women-being-injected-with-date-rape-drugs-422633">Also read |&nbsp;Panic grips UK nightclubs amid reports of women being injected with date rape drugs</a>

Wayne Couzens, 48, was jailed for life last month for abducting the 33-year-old marketing executive from a street in south London as she walked home on March 3, then raping and killing her. Her body was found in woodland around 80 km away.&nbsp;

The case also fuelled a debate on how the Metropolitan Police vets recruits and whether a misogynistic culture exists in the force.

Britain's police watchdog is looking into police failures to investigate an indecent exposure incident linked to Couzens in 2015, and two further such allegations in February this year. 
&nbsp;

Women in the United Kingdom are boycotting clubs and pubs after a surge in needle attacks and cases of drink spiking. Calling it a 'girls night in,' young women are choosing to stay at their homes instead of going out.

Women in the United Kingdom are boycotting clubs and pubs after a surge in needle attacks and cases of drink spiking. Calling it a 'girls night in,' young women are choosing to stay at their homes instead of going out. Thousands of women have signed a petition urging the government to make it compulsory for nightclubs to thoroughly search guests on entry. An online campaign is also gaining momentum in Bristol, Brighton, and Nottingham which have a lot of universities. It aims at raising awareness about ''date rape'' drugs. Victims claim they were stabbed with a needle in their leg, wrists, and back and awoke with no remembrance of the previous night. UK's National Police Chiefs’ Council had said last week that almost 200 cases of drink spiking were reported to police forces across the UK over the past two months. Also read | UK: Nearly 200 cases of drink spiking reported in last two months Deputy chief constable Jason Harwin had said ''We are working at pace with forces, law enforcement agencies such as the NCA [National Crime Agency] and other partners including the Home Office and universities to understand the scale of offending, establish any links between the allegations and ultimately bring any identified offenders to justice.'' The murder of Londoner Sarah Everard by a Metropolitan Police officer had prompted an outpouring of grief and rage, with protests and demands for action to end violence against women. Also read | Panic grips UK nightclubs amid reports of women being injected with date rape drugs Wayne Couzens, 48, was jailed for life last month for abducting the 33-year-old marketing executive from a street in south London as she walked home on March 3, then raping and killing her. Her body was found in woodland around 80 km away. The case also fuelled a debate on how the Metropolitan Police vets recruits and whether a misogynistic culture exists in the force. Britain's police watchdog is looking into police failures to investigate an indecent exposure incident linked to Couzens in 2015, and two further such allegations in February this year.

'Girls night in': UK women boycott clubs amid surge in spiking of drinks

Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander de Croo, and five other government ministers from European countries have signed an open letter demanding an end to all legal barriers to abortion.

The letter has been signed by ministers from France, Canada, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands have raised their voices to support women’s right to safe and legal abortion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mount-recyclemore-sculptor-makes-structure-out-of-electronic-waste-before-g7-summit-390448" hreflang="en">'Mount Recyclemore': Sculptor makes structure out of electronic waste before G7 summit</a>

Along with other 29 politicians, the letter senders asked for re-introduction of legal abortion clinics, which, they believe, were being targeted by misinformation leading to closure.

"No woman should be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term; and no woman should die due to pregnancy or childbirth. The foundation of a fair and equal world for women and girls in all their diversity is the right to decide about their own bodies. Every woman everywhere has the right to safe, legal abortion, maternal and obstetric healthcare, comprehensive sexuality education and contraception," the letter reads.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-students-hold-principal-hostage-for-30-hours-during-protests-390397" hreflang="en">Chinese students hold principal hostage for 30 hours during protests</a>

It further highlights the problems that women are facing and the negative impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on women’s health.

"Right now, across the world, women and girls are routinely denied full access to their sexual and reproductive rights and freedoms. The disproportionate impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly on women’s economic empowerment, and&nbsp;increased sexual and gender-based violence, makes the need to secure gender equality more pressing than ever," the letter explains.

They also stressed that the road to safe abortions is only if the anti-abortion campaigns are silenced by giving a legal nod to abortions all around the world.

Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander de Croo, and five other government ministers from European countries have signed an open letter demanding an end to all legal barriers to abortion.

Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander de Croo, and five other government ministers from European countries have signed an open letter demanding an end to all legal barriers to abortion. The letter has been signed by ministers from France, Canada, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands have raised their voices to support women’s right to safe and legal abortion. Also read | 'Mount Recyclemore': Sculptor makes structure out of electronic waste before G7 summit Along with other 29 politicians, the letter senders asked for re-introduction of legal abortion clinics, which, they believe, were being targeted by misinformation leading to closure. "No woman should be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term; and no woman should die due to pregnancy or childbirth. The foundation of a fair and equal world for women and girls in all their diversity is the right to decide about their own bodies. Every woman everywhere has the right to safe, legal abortion, maternal and obstetric healthcare, comprehensive sexuality education and contraception," the letter reads. Also read | Chinese students hold principal hostage for 30 hours during protests It further highlights the problems that women are facing and the negative impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on women’s health. "Right now, across the world, women and girls are routinely denied full access to their sexual and reproductive rights and freedoms. The disproportionate impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly on women’s economic empowerment, and increased sexual and gender-based violence, makes the need to secure gender equality more pressing than ever," the letter explains. They also stressed that the road to safe abortions is only if the anti-abortion campaigns are silenced by giving a legal nod to abortions all around the world.

Global leaders call for end on abortion barriers

A few months after a London woman, Sarah Everard, was murdered, a police officer has confessed to kidnapping and raping the 33-year-old.

Wayne Couzens, a 48-year-old officer with the Met police, pleaded guilty to abducting Everard while she was walking home from her friend’s house in the South of London on March 03.

Couzens was earlier accused of raping and murdering the 33-year-old and was scheduled to enter a plea next month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/i-am-not-an-object-women-in-london-march-for-safety-375245">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/i-am-not-an-object-women-in-london-march-for-safety-375245/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the police officer pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping the London woman, the local media reported on Tuesday.

Everard’s case has highlighted the poor status of security of women in the country, especially London, where several women claim to feel unsafe while walking alone on the streets.

Her death led to several women recounting their own experiences of unsafe travel in the city and thousands of people took to the streets to demand justice for Everard’s murder.

However, the London police were criticised for the way the unit mishandled a vigil that was organised for Everard.

A few months after a London woman, Sarah Everard, was murdered, a police officer has confessed to kidnapping and raping the 33-year-old. Wayne Couzens, a 48-year-old officer with the Met police, pleaded guilty to abducting Everard while she was walking home from her friend’s house in the South of London on March 03.

A few months after a London woman, Sarah Everard, was murdered, a police officer has confessed to kidnapping and raping the 33-year-old. Wayne Couzens, a 48-year-old officer with the Met police, pleaded guilty to abducting Everard while she was walking home from her friend’s house in the South of London on March 03. Couzens was earlier accused of raping and murdering the 33-year-old and was scheduled to enter a plea next month. WATCH | However, the police officer pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping the London woman, the local media reported on Tuesday. Everard’s case has highlighted the poor status of security of women in the country, especially London, where several women claim to feel unsafe while walking alone on the streets. Her death led to several women recounting their own experiences of unsafe travel in the city and thousands of people took to the streets to demand justice for Everard’s murder. However, the London police were criticised for the way the unit mishandled a vigil that was organised for Everard.

Sarah Everard disappearance case: UK police officer confesses to kidnap and rape

A month after 33-year old Sarah Everard was kidnapped and murdered, women's rights held a protest in London against the lack of any official action taken for women's safety.

"I am not an object": Women in London march for safety

In the US, Governor Andrew Cuomo refuses to resign. In the UK, cops arrested women at a vigil held for Sarah Everard. In Australia, there were marches in 40 cities. Is the West's image as a safe place for women under threat? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: The West's image on women safety is under threat

Thousands of protesters return to London's Parliament on Monday to rally against Police's action to break up a vigil for Sarah Everard.

London Police clash with mourners at Sarah Everard's vigil

The United States is witnessing an outpouring of grief with Sarah Everard's murder. The murder of 33-year-old Sarah Everard has reignited a national debate in Britain on women's safety and sexual assault.

WION Dispatch: Murder of UK woman sparks concerns on women safety

Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Saturday announced in the Legislative Council that the state government will organize a two-day special Assembly session to pass a law pertaining to women safety on the lines of the 'Disha Act' of Andhra Pradesh.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-dgp-welcomes-new-ap-disha-act-passed-by-state-assembly-268311">Andhra Pradesh DGP welcomes new AP Disha Act passed by State Assembly</a>

The minister while addressing the state Assembly on February 28 had stated that under the proposed law, the whole trial of rape cases will be completed in 21 days and there would be provision for stricter punishment including the death penalty.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-assembly-passes-disha-bill-to-provide-stricter-rape-offences-268114">Andhra Assembly passes Disha Bill to provide stricter rape offences</a>

The Disha Act 2019, allows stringent punishment for crimes committed against women and enables the death penalty for rape and reduces the judgment period in such cases to 21 working days.

Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Saturday announced in the Legislative Council that the state government will organize a two-day special Assembly session to pass a law pertaining to women safety on the lines of the 'Disha Act' of Andhra Pradesh.

Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on Saturday announced in the Legislative Council that the state government will organize a two-day special Assembly session to pass a law pertaining to women safety on the lines of the 'Disha Act' of Andhra Pradesh. Also read: Andhra Pradesh DGP welcomes new AP Disha Act passed by State Assembly The minister while addressing the state Assembly on February 28 had stated that under the proposed law, the whole trial of rape cases will be completed in 21 days and there would be provision for stricter punishment including the death penalty. Also see: Andhra Assembly passes Disha Bill to provide stricter rape offences The Disha Act 2019, allows stringent punishment for crimes committed against women and enables the death penalty for rape and reduces the judgment period in such cases to 21 working days.

Maharashtra to organise two-day special Assembly session to pass law on women safety

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-7200-paramilitary-troops-to-be-withdrawn-from-jammu-and-kashmir-270142">Ministry of Home Affairs</a> has re-organized the Divisions and allocation of work at the level of Joint Secretary. The Internal Security, Internal Security-I&nbsp;division has been merged with Internal Security-II&nbsp;and its nomenclature will now be known as Internal Security (IS) Division. 
 
They were divided a few years back for the betterment of the division but now have been merged. 
 
"Joint Secretary (Women Safety) will look after the work of Internal Security Division in addition to own charge of Woman Safety (WS) Division; Officer will be designated as JS (WS&amp;IS)," the letter stated. 
 
The letter also stated that matters pertaining to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-section-144-extended-for-security-in-ayodhya-till-25-february-270783">Ayodhya</a> and related court judgments will be put up by DS (National Integration) to AS-Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh (JKL) through JS JKL. 
 
From now on, all the files of AS (Police Modernisation) will be routed through Secretary (Border Management).

The Ministry of Home Affairs has re-organized the Divisions and allocation of work at the level of Joint Secretary. The Internal Security, Internal Security-I division has been merged with Internal Security-II and its nomenclature will now be known as Internal Security (IS) Division.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has re-organized the Divisions and allocation of work at the level of Joint Secretary. The Internal Security, Internal Security-I division has been merged with Internal Security-II and its nomenclature will now be known as Internal Security (IS) Division. They were divided a few years back for the betterment of the division but now have been merged. "Joint Secretary (Women Safety) will look after the work of Internal Security Division in addition to own charge of Woman Safety (WS) Division; Officer will be designated as JS (WS&IS)," the letter stated. The letter also stated that matters pertaining to Ayodhya and related court judgments will be put up by DS (National Integration) to AS-Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh (JKL) through JS JKL. From now on, all the files of AS (Police Modernisation) will be routed through Secretary (Border Management).

MHA merged work divisions, IS-I and IS-II, to form Internal Security (IS) Division

Hyderabad's Nirbhaya has left India seething again. The rape and murder of 27-yr old send shockwaves to the nation. More Nirbhaya, every day, every hour?

India: No country for women?

Delhi Police women's patrol unit is riding colour-coded pink scooters with pink helmets to spread awareness on women safety.

The initiative by Delhi Police was launched in September where 16 women constables, trained in armed combat, were handpicked for the job.

The patrolling timing of the team are 11 am-1 pm and 5 pm-7 pm and the constables' arsenal include chilli powder, spy camera, and pepper spray.

Home to some 26 million people - nearly half of them women - Delhi recorded the highest rate of crimes against women in India, according to the most recent federal crime records data released in 2017.

Gender crime has become a serious political issue in Delhi since 2012 when the gang-rape of a 23-year-old woman brought thousands of people on to city streets in protest.

Delhi Police women's patrol unit is riding colour-coded pink scooters with pink helmets to spread awareness on women safety. The initiative by Delhi Police was launched in September where 16 women constables, trained in armed combat, were handpicked for the job.

Delhi Police women's patrol unit is riding colour-coded pink scooters with pink helmets to spread awareness on women safety. The initiative by Delhi Police was launched in September where 16 women constables, trained in armed combat, were handpicked for the job. The patrolling timing of the team are 11 am-1 pm and 5 pm-7 pm and the constables' arsenal include chilli powder, spy camera, and pepper spray. Home to some 26 million people - nearly half of them women - Delhi recorded the highest rate of crimes against women in India, according to the most recent federal crime records data released in 2017. Gender crime has become a serious political issue in Delhi since 2012 when the gang-rape of a 23-year-old woman brought thousands of people on to city streets in protest.

Pretty in pink: Delhi police's women patrol unit ride pink scooters

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards.

"From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here.

The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses".

"Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added.

Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward.

The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday. The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards. "From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here. The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses". "Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added. Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward. The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Marshals to be deployed on Delhi buses from tomorrow to ensure women safety: Arvind Kejriwal

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to take necessary steps and consider bringing a law to regulate mobile app-based taxi service providers like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/courtesy-matters-uber-to-remove-riders-who-misbehave-or-damage-properties-despite-warnings-193758">Ola and Uber </a>to ensure the safety of women.

A bench headed by Justice S A Bobde was hearing a petition filed by Nipun Saxena related to safety and security of women. Nipun had filed the petition after Nirbhaya gangrape case in 2012.

The bench also comprising Justice R Subhash Reddy and Justice B R Gavai asked the petitioner to make a representation before the government containing suggestion on the regulation of the app-based taxi services.

The court also asked the state governments to set up 'Crisis Centre' in each district to deal with sexual offence cases against women. It also asked states to comply with the guidelines and standard operating procedures framed by the Central government on the running of a Crisis Centre. 
 
A Crisis Centre helps sexual assault victims by providing counselling and other services. 
 
There have been several instances in the recent past across the country wherein women were assaulted while travelling in Ola and Uber cabs. 
 
(With reports from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to take necessary steps and consider bringing a law to regulate mobile app-based taxi service providers like Ola and Uber to ensure the safety of women.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to take necessary steps and consider bringing a law to regulate mobile app-based taxi service providers like Ola and Uber to ensure the safety of women. A bench headed by Justice S A Bobde was hearing a petition filed by Nipun Saxena related to safety and security of women. Nipun had filed the petition after Nirbhaya gangrape case in 2012. The bench also comprising Justice R Subhash Reddy and Justice B R Gavai asked the petitioner to make a representation before the government containing suggestion on the regulation of the app-based taxi services. The court also asked the state governments to set up 'Crisis Centre' in each district to deal with sexual offence cases against women. It also asked states to comply with the guidelines and standard operating procedures framed by the Central government on the running of a Crisis Centre. A Crisis Centre helps sexual assault victims by providing counselling and other services. There have been several instances in the recent past across the country wherein women were assaulted while travelling in Ola and Uber cabs. (With reports from agencies)

Women safety: Supreme Court asks Centre to consider law to regulate Ola, Uber; directs states to set up crisis centres

A 35-member women police team 'Sthree Shakthi'&nbsp;was launched in Visakhapatnam on Thursday.&nbsp;

The 35-member team has woman ASIs, head constables, police constables and home guards. The team has been provided 25 vehicles, including two four-wheelers.

"It is a 35 members team. We have started with 25 vehicles, 5 four wheelers and rest are motorcycles and scooters. This is mainly for the protection of women. The women-related issue can be informed to the team and then they will take action accordingly. From drivers to police personnel, everyone is a woman," said Andhra Pradesh DGP AP Thakur.&nbsp;

"In Visakhapatnam, there are a number of educational institutions and workplaces where women are working in large numbers. Our prime concern is to ensure safety to women," he said.&nbsp;

The initiative was taken to provide security to women and girls. All the police constables were imparted training in the car driving,&nbsp;&nbsp;swimming, communication skills and self-defence for one month.

They all will be deployed on important junctions of the city. They will handle women-related issues including eve-teasers and trouble-mongers.&nbsp;

The Shakthi police will don a blue colour shirt and khaki colour pant as uniform.

A 35-member women police team 'Sthree Shakthi' was launched in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. The 35-member team has woman ASIs, head constables, police constables and home guards.

A 35-member women police team 'Sthree Shakthi' was launched in Visakhapatnam on Thursday. The 35-member team has woman ASIs, head constables, police constables and home guards. The team has been provided 25 vehicles, including two four-wheelers. "It is a 35 members team. We have started with 25 vehicles, 5 four wheelers and rest are motorcycles and scooters. This is mainly for the protection of women. The women-related issue can be informed to the team and then they will take action accordingly. From drivers to police personnel, everyone is a woman," said Andhra Pradesh DGP AP Thakur. "In Visakhapatnam, there are a number of educational institutions and workplaces where women are working in large numbers. Our prime concern is to ensure safety to women," he said. The initiative was taken to provide security to women and girls. All the police constables were imparted training in the car driving, swimming, communication skills and self-defence for one month. They all will be deployed on important junctions of the city. They will handle women-related issues including eve-teasers and trouble-mongers. The Shakthi police will don a blue colour shirt and khaki colour pant as uniform.

Andhra Pradesh: Sthree Shakthi cops launched to ensure women safety

In a bid to strengthen security for women passengers, North Eastern Railway has proposed to install panic buttons in coaches and deploy women police in trains during night hours.&nbsp

"These buttons, placed at convenient spots for easy reach of women travellers above the electric switches, when pressed will denote the coach where there is emergency and the railway staff present in the train will be informed to promptly attend to the emergency," chief public relations officer of North Eastern Railway, Sanjay Yadav noted.&nbsp

According to reports, women police personnel will be deployed in sub-urban trains during night hours besides recruitment of women in the Railway Police Force. The panic buttons installed will be linked with the guard coach.&nbsp

Yadav further noted that now female passengers will not have to depend on helpline numbers or resort to chain-pulling in an emergency situation. With the new system in place, immediate action can be taken, he added.

"Work on these proposals was going on and there are chances that the one pertaining to 'panic button' will take shape this year itself," he added.

The proposal also involves having a different colour on the coaches earmarked for women for easy identification, wire mesh in windows of ladies coaches, CCTV cameras in women coaches of suburban trains with live feed if possible, and enhanced punishment for offenders.

(With inputs from PTI)

The panic buttons installed will be linked with the guard coach

In a bid to strengthen security for women passengers, North Eastern Railway has proposed to install panic buttons in coaches and deploy women police in trains during night hours. "These buttons, placed at convenient spots for easy reach of women travellers above the electric switches, when pressed will denote the coach where there is emergency and the railway staff present in the train will be informed to promptly attend to the emergency," chief public relations officer of North Eastern Railway, Sanjay Yadav noted. According to reports, women police personnel will be deployed in sub-urban trains during night hours besides recruitment of women in the Railway Police Force. The panic buttons installed will be linked with the guard coach. Yadav further noted that now female passengers will not have to depend on helpline numbers or resort to chain-pulling in an emergency situation. With the new system in place, immediate action can be taken, he added. "Work on these proposals was going on and there are chances that the one pertaining to 'panic button' will take shape this year itself," he added. The proposal also involves having a different colour on the coaches earmarked for women for easy identification, wire mesh in windows of ladies coaches, CCTV cameras in women coaches of suburban trains with live feed if possible, and enhanced punishment for offenders. (With inputs from PTI)

Railways may soon install 'panic button' in trains for women safety

Describing the latest incident of outrageous rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in India as "revolting", IMF chief Christine Lagarde today hoped that the Indian authorities starting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pay more attention to it.

Her sharp remarks come in the backdrop of a nationwide outrage over the rape cases in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua and Uttar Pradesh's Unnao.

"What has happened (in India) is just revolting. I would hope that the Indian authorities, starting with Prime Minister Modi pay more attention because it is needed for the women of India," Lagarde said.

"When I was last in Davos after Prime Minister Modi's speech, I did tell him that he had not mentioned the women of India enough. And it's not just a question of talking about them," the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund said.

She quickly clarified that this was her personal position and not that of the IMF. "By the way this is not an IMF official position. It is my position," she said.&nbsp

Describing the latest incident of outrageous rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in India as "revolting", IMF chief Christine Lagarde today hoped that the Indian authorities starting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pay more attention to it

Describing the latest incident of outrageous rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in India as "revolting", IMF chief Christine Lagarde today hoped that the Indian authorities starting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pay more attention to it. Her sharp remarks come in the backdrop of a nationwide outrage over the rape cases in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua and Uttar Pradesh's Unnao. "What has happened (in India) is just revolting. I would hope that the Indian authorities, starting with Prime Minister Modi pay more attention because it is needed for the women of India," Lagarde said. "When I was last in Davos after Prime Minister Modi's speech, I did tell him that he had not mentioned the women of India enough. And it's not just a question of talking about them," the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund said. She quickly clarified that this was her personal position and not that of the IMF. "By the way this is not an IMF official position. It is my position," she said.

PM Modi need to pay more attention to women: IMF chief Christine Lagarde

Urban mobility, smart city, city branding - the latest buzz words in urban planning. We often fail to include the role of crime prevention, urban safety, and ample public spaces through environmental design. To address the same The Global Grid, organized a twitter event (#TheGlobalGrid) to discuss “Safety through Environmental Design” to ideate and develop suitable solutions to design public spaces for women and from the perspective of women.

My personal take on some of the pertinent questions on a safe city- “it’s indicators, design measures for a safe city, formulation of a cohesive community, gender approach in planning process and&nbsp elements that threaten the existence of a safe city” are provided herein below:

A safe city and its indicators:

The idea of a “Safe City” should not be limited to modern infrastructural development rather align with sustainable goals too. Along with safety measures namely: “CCTV Installation, street lights, employing women in police force and police stations, deploying emergency response team, prevention of cyber-crime, identifying hotspots, awareness campaigns via social media, live and women safety apps”, other indicators namely: “clean air, free from toxic agents, clean water, basic health requirement” should be part of “safe city” program.

Understanding a city’s structure, history, and design- its strength and weaknesses, without harming its ecology and unique features should be considered to build a safe city. Safe City’s agenda must include: health security, personal security and infrastructure, digital and cybersecurity, better family planning initiative and sensitizing public, promote wealth and economic development, better roads, equal focus on roads for car as well as pedestrians, intelligent lighting, sufficient energy supplies, well-lit streets, better transport system and disabled friendly city, public toilets.

In toto, appropriate measures to be taken in the field of “health, digital, infrastructure, and personal” safety.

Design measures required for a safe city:

Design measures to fulfill the urgent requirement to build a safe city. A city has to function smart for its citizens. A&nbsp safe city should be compact and well connected- better traffic flow, spaces for pedestrians, adoption of measures to launch better quality public transport, disabled friendly, designated waiting areas, study data to protect and detect problem areas (identify hotspots). Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) has proven to be a cost-effective measure to ensure safety.

To ensure optimal results, citizens with right assistance can participate and volunteer in urban planning and transform existing neighborhood. Create ample space for pedestrians, reduce the need for vehicles and public facilities with better urban design, maximize safety in health and personal security, engage stakeholders/civil societies, launch neighborhood watch program, understand the current demand of community- needs and requirements. Projects adopted should be feasible, cost-effective and avoid wasting money. Understanding our space and services needed for the community i.e, car parking, bike parking. The idea of “Urbanism” is not to destroy green spaces. Developers and planners should include green spaces and design friendly neighborhood for commercial as well as private property.&nbsp

Vienna in Austria (1999), conducted a study on the usage of public transport for men and women. The report suggested men completed the feedback form in no time. Whereas, women addressed a lot more practical issues.&nbsp Men use public transport only for official purposes (from office to home and vice versa). Women had broader demands, namely, “sidewalks, bus routes,&nbsp subway lines” to name a few. Women do not restrict their movement from home to office only. We are not a homogenous entity. The idea was to include men and women- “gender mainstreaming” to reshape the city. Design ensure safety measures and an optimal desired result can be achieved by including both the sexes for a metropolis to succeed.

In South Asia there are rampant instances of acid attack, chain snatching, knife attack/stabbing, women basically are encouraged to stay indoors at night. If cities are planned and well equipped with technology and environmental design, such risk can be significantly reduced.&nbsp

Ascertaining safe environment for a cohesive community:

We need to look beyond conventional measures to build safe cities. Mental, physical and social well-being can be assured in a healthy environment. A safe city is essential for the wellbeing of citizens. Community building exercises do help in the creation of a trusting network of relationships in the neighborhood. Often strong communities are well reciprocated, if these measures are encouraged- proactive participation, solutions to address local issues, harm minimisation strategy with the help of law enforcement, adopt preventive measures to handle risk factors like violence, injury, crime, early intervention and help risk-based groups, gender equity, recognising diversity and understanding of safety needs of men and women, proper design help reduce fear and crime. If these elements are inculcated, communities may develop strong ties and accountable.

A safe environment is definitely a good measure of community cohesion. Safe environment reduces fear and incidence of crime and improves the quality of life. For example, Melbourne, New York, and Tokyo are 24hours city, this has helped women participate in business and domestic affairs efficiently.

&nbspPractical Approaches:&nbsp

Theoretically, all the above-mentioned measures are good. However, for a pragmatic approach, the requirement of developing countries and developed countries has to be understood. In India, basic issues such as slum dwellers issues, street vendors, public toilets and sanitation issues, poverty, a risk of eviction should be resolved. The idea of cohesive community will fail to exist if grass root issues are not addressed. The big divide between rich and poor will not ensure “safe city”. Most of the time victims of rape, abuse, torture, and migrants often face hardship looking for a suitable house or neighborhood. The house owners do not wish to be associated with risk and taboo involved in any victim related case. Thus, to build a cohesive community, such issues should be addressed.

Engaging women and residents, collect relevant data (R&D) for town planning, mixed-used neighborhood to cut down crime,&nbsp homelessness- the idea is to make cities liveable, involve women, community leaders in city planning. Women, children, and senior citizens are at risk often vulnerable, if these risks are analyzed and basic security through environmental design, technology, and zoning laws are set in place, lot more can be achieved.

Dark alley, the absence of street lights, functional CCTV, better pathways for pedestrians,&nbsp public transport, the absence of a functional 24-hour city- these features posing as a threat to our movement should be curbed immediately.

Will gender approach to safe city planning help reduce crime?

Gender equity is urgently needed to achieve social justice goal. The idea is to be fair to both the sexes. It helps understand the strategy required to identify the needs and requirement of both the sexes.&nbsp

We women do not enjoy much of public spaces (depends from country to country). To ascertain our territory/space -private and public, gender-based approach must be encouraged. We should be able to move around freely at any time- perform our regular chores, go to work, live life fully and why not, it’s 2018?

Gender approach is a systematic way to safe city planning, as it is more inclusive and do not represent women as “second-class citizen”. Women can equally participate in sectors like business, finance, politics, private/public sector jobs. The inclusion of women is fundamental to a holistic city-wide urban safety and public spaces.&nbsp

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp

The idea of a 'Safe City' should not be limited to modern infrastructural development rather align with sustainable goals too

Urban mobility, smart city, city branding - the latest buzz words in urban planning. We often fail to include the role of crime prevention, urban safety, and ample public spaces through environmental design. To address the same The Global Grid, organized a twitter event (#TheGlobalGrid) to discuss “Safety through Environmental Design” to ideate and develop suitable solutions to design public spaces for women and from the perspective of women. My personal take on some of the pertinent questions on a safe city- “it’s indicators, design measures for a safe city, formulation of a cohesive community, gender approach in planning process and elements that threaten the existence of a safe city” are provided herein below: A safe city and its indicators: The idea of a “Safe City” should not be limited to modern infrastructural development rather align with sustainable goals too. Along with safety measures namely: “CCTV Installation, street lights, employing women in police force and police stations, deploying emergency response team, prevention of cyber-crime, identifying hotspots, awareness campaigns via social media, live and women safety apps”, other indicators namely: “clean air, free from toxic agents, clean water, basic health requirement” should be part of “safe city” program. Understanding a city’s structure, history, and design- its strength and weaknesses, without harming its ecology and unique features should be considered to build a safe city. Safe City’s agenda must include: health security, personal security and infrastructure, digital and cybersecurity, better family planning initiative and sensitizing public, promote wealth and economic development, better roads, equal focus on roads for car as well as pedestrians, intelligent lighting, sufficient energy supplies, well-lit streets, better transport system and disabled friendly city, public toilets. In toto, appropriate measures to be taken in the field of “health, digital, infrastructure, and personal” safety. Design measures required for a safe city: Design measures to fulfill the urgent requirement to build a safe city. A city has to function smart for its citizens. A safe city should be compact and well connected- better traffic flow, spaces for pedestrians, adoption of measures to launch better quality public transport, disabled friendly, designated waiting areas, study data to protect and detect problem areas (identify hotspots). Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) has proven to be a cost-effective measure to ensure safety. To ensure optimal results, citizens with right assistance can participate and volunteer in urban planning and transform existing neighborhood. Create ample space for pedestrians, reduce the need for vehicles and public facilities with better urban design, maximize safety in health and personal security, engage stakeholders/civil societies, launch neighborhood watch program, understand the current demand of community- needs and requirements. Projects adopted should be feasible, cost-effective and avoid wasting money. Understanding our space and services needed for the community i.e, car parking, bike parking. The idea of “Urbanism” is not to destroy green spaces. Developers and planners should include green spaces and design friendly neighborhood for commercial as well as private property. Vienna in Austria (1999), conducted a study on the usage of public transport for men and women. The report suggested men completed the feedback form in no time. Whereas, women addressed a lot more practical issues. Men use public transport only for official purposes (from office to home and vice versa). Women had broader demands, namely, “sidewalks, bus routes, subway lines” to name a few. Women do not restrict their movement from home to office only. We are not a homogenous entity. The idea was to include men and women- “gender mainstreaming” to reshape the city. Design ensure safety measures and an optimal desired result can be achieved by including both the sexes for a metropolis to succeed. In South Asia there are rampant instances of acid attack, chain snatching, knife attack/stabbing, women basically are encouraged to stay indoors at night. If cities are planned and well equipped with technology and environmental design, such risk can be significantly reduced. Ascertaining safe environment for a cohesive community: We need to look beyond conventional measures to build safe cities. Mental, physical and social well-being can be assured in a healthy environment. A safe city is essential for the wellbeing of citizens. Community building exercises do help in the creation of a trusting network of relationships in the neighborhood. Often strong communities are well reciprocated, if these measures are encouraged- proactive participation, solutions to address local issues, harm minimisation strategy with the help of law enforcement, adopt preventive measures to handle risk factors like violence, injury, crime, early intervention and help risk-based groups, gender equity, recognising diversity and understanding of safety needs of men and women, proper design help reduce fear and crime. If these elements are inculcated, communities may develop strong ties and accountable. A safe environment is definitely a good measure of community cohesion. Safe environment reduces fear and incidence of crime and improves the quality of life. For example, Melbourne, New York, and Tokyo are 24hours city, this has helped women participate in business and domestic affairs efficiently. &nbspPractical Approaches: Theoretically, all the above-mentioned measures are good. However, for a pragmatic approach, the requirement of developing countries and developed countries has to be understood. In India, basic issues such as slum dwellers issues, street vendors, public toilets and sanitation issues, poverty, a risk of eviction should be resolved. The idea of cohesive community will fail to exist if grass root issues are not addressed. The big divide between rich and poor will not ensure “safe city”. Most of the time victims of rape, abuse, torture, and migrants often face hardship looking for a suitable house or neighborhood. The house owners do not wish to be associated with risk and taboo involved in any victim related case. Thus, to build a cohesive community, such issues should be addressed. Engaging women and residents, collect relevant data (R&D) for town planning, mixed-used neighborhood to cut down crime, homelessness- the idea is to make cities liveable, involve women, community leaders in city planning. Women, children, and senior citizens are at risk often vulnerable, if these risks are analyzed and basic security through environmental design, technology, and zoning laws are set in place, lot more can be achieved. Dark alley, the absence of street lights, functional CCTV, better pathways for pedestrians, public transport, the absence of a functional 24-hour city- these features posing as a threat to our movement should be curbed immediately. Will gender approach to safe city planning help reduce crime? Gender equity is urgently needed to achieve social justice goal. The idea is to be fair to both the sexes. It helps understand the strategy required to identify the needs and requirement of both the sexes. We women do not enjoy much of public spaces (depends from country to country). To ascertain our territory/space -private and public, gender-based approach must be encouraged. We should be able to move around freely at any time- perform our regular chores, go to work, live life fully and why not, it’s 2018? Gender approach is a systematic way to safe city planning, as it is more inclusive and do not represent women as “second-class citizen”. Women can equally participate in sectors like business, finance, politics, private/public sector jobs. The inclusion of women is fundamental to a holistic city-wide urban safety and public spaces. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The idea of a safe city for women - reality or fictitious?

There are no surprises here. A report released by the women and child development ministry has declared Goa as the safest state for women and Delhi as one of the most unsafe places.&nbsp;

The findings of the first-ever gender vulnerability index (GVI) are expected to help identify the challenges women across India face in various states in terms of education, health, poverty and protection against violence. The findings are supposed to help policymakers in chalking out a plan to safeguard the fairer gender.&nbsp; 
 
Goa is at the top position, followed by Kerala, Mizoram, Sikkim and Manipur. States, where women are most vulnerable, are Bihar, Jharkhand, UP and Delhi.&nbsp; 
 
According to the report, Goa&#39;s GVI is 0.656, more than the national average of 0.5314. The index scores are on a scale of zero to one. The closer the score is to one, the better the performance. Kerala&#39;s GVI stands at 0.634 and at the bottom of the table is Bihar with a GVI of 0.410.&nbsp; 
 
Delhi ranks at 28 with a GVI score of 0.436 due to its infamous track record in the field of education and protection. Jharkhand ranks at 27, ahead of Delhi with GVI score of 0.450 while UP&#39;s GVI score is 0.434. The study was based on 170 indicators including the Census 2011.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Goa is the safest state for women; Bihar, Delhi are not

There are no surprises here. A report released by the women and child development ministry has declared Goa as the safest state for women and Delhi as one of the most unsafe places. The findings of the first-ever gender vulnerability index (GVI) are expected to help identify the challenges women across India face in various states in terms of education, health, poverty and protection against violence. The findings are supposed to help policymakers in chalking out a plan to safeguard the fairer gender. Goa is at the top position, followed by Kerala, Mizoram, Sikkim and Manipur. States, where women are most vulnerable, are Bihar, Jharkhand, UP and Delhi. According to the report, Goa's GVI is 0.656, more than the national average of 0.5314. The index scores are on a scale of zero to one. The closer the score is to one, the better the performance. Kerala's GVI stands at 0.634 and at the bottom of the table is Bihar with a GVI of 0.410. Delhi ranks at 28 with a GVI score of 0.436 due to its infamous track record in the field of education and protection. Jharkhand ranks at 27, ahead of Delhi with GVI score of 0.450 while UP's GVI score is 0.434. The study was based on 170 indicators including the Census 2011.

If you ever thought that the internet was free of any prejudice and that in its basic sense, it gives people equal rights to act and react, then you are wrong. The internet is anything but gender-neutral and&nbsp;there is a growing need for a feminist internet: one which has an equal space for women&nbsp;to sexual expression, consent and control of data.

Champion of the feminist internet,&nbsp;Anja Kovacs directs The Internet Democracy Project, an initiative at Point of View&nbsp;which works towards providing opportunities to people whereby they use the Internet informed and judiciously.

She points out, &ldquo;Women have been surveilled by communities and families for centuries. We know the impact that it has. Most people who are open to the kind of things we do can see the restrictions that are there to women that are not on men. This harms women&rsquo;s lives, shapes their lives in particular ways because they constantly have to be careful of what they are doing, where they are going--they constantly have to justify.&rdquo;

Trends reflect that India is like any other country where patriarchy is strongly steeped within the structure of the society. This often gets translated to the nature of communication communities have within themselves and enforces on individuals, majorly women.&nbsp;

There is evidence according to Anja that &ldquo;the more conservative the family is, the more restricted you are on the Internet&rdquo;.

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<h5>The more conservative the family is, the more restricted you are on the Internet.</h5>
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Does it affect all women?&nbsp;

She adds,&nbsp;&quot;I think this is actually true for all women, for you and me as well as for the poorest of the poor. I think it plays out differently though depending on your background, location. &nbsp;Also, financial independence as we have seen that money allows you certain things that you will otherwise be restricted from. For example, your family might not be comfortable with you going out in the night but if they know you can take a taxi, you can get a ride from a friend they know, and you have a mobile phone with which they can be in touch with you constantly--then maybe it&rsquo;s ok. But you have to be able to afford all of that.&quot; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;The fact that women are surveilled more than men is consistent. This divide might be sharper in India but I don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;s unique to India. A lot of surveillance in India in more conservative communities has really to do with the fears around women&rsquo;s sexuality and the importance of women&rsquo;s virginity for the reputation of a family. It&rsquo;s not just about keeping an individual woman safe but it&rsquo;s also about maintaining the reputation of the entire family and community. The weight of all that falls on women&#39;s shoulders.&rdquo;

On May 3, 2017, a village in UP banned the usage of mobile phones by women, as an order by Khap Panchayat but there&rsquo;s nothing new in the news. The same diktat was announced in several villages of UP, Haryana and Rajasthan in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, and even before. According to news reports, every time this ban was pronounced, it was because the Panchayat wanted to restrict women&rsquo;s communication with men and not vice-versa.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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<h5>In Muzaffarnagar, the banning of mobile phones was supported as though they are bad for girls, create spaces of privacy and independence that will lead to trouble. It should only be allowed ideally after marriage, definitely not before college.</h5>
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According to Anja: &ldquo;In Muzaffarnagar, the idea (banning of mobile phones) was supported as though they are bad for girls, create spaces of privacy and independence that will only lead to trouble. It should only be allowed ideally after marriage, definitely not before college. However, the same rules do not apply to boys.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
Sadly, this is not just restricted to the elders in Khap Panchayat as the same sentiment is shared by the rural womenfolk too.&ldquo;We met with a woman in Muzaffarnagar who happens to also work for women empowerment. She introduced us to the phrase &lsquo;chupke, chupke&rsquo; (hidden in English). She said that whenever you have to do something &lsquo;chupke chupke&rsquo; then it&rsquo;s always bad. Girls get phones from their boyfriends, stay in bathrooms or separate rooms for long and talk behind closed doors&rdquo;, narrates Anja.

Social norms influence women&rsquo;s lives 
&nbsp; 
Social norms affect women&rsquo;s role in the society, status, empowerment, and access to education and income in society, and consequently their relationship with mobile technology. It is often hidden within other, more commonly cited barriers that influence women&rsquo;s access to and use of mobile technology.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Village women only know that the green button is for picking up phone calls and the red one for disconnecting the phone&rdquo;, says a rural male from India. This, because women are only taught to do this on mobile phones, and that too in the company of others.&nbsp;

Why are women not allowed to use the Internet with privacy? 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;It breaks my heart to tell you that a school teacher in a village told us that the Constitution cannot run at the cost of village way of life. He responded like this when we told him how ironical it was between what was being taught to young girls and what they were practising in real life. These girls who otherwise speak in Hindi, learn words like equality and rights in classrooms but are aware of the contradictions in their life. One girl even questioned us as to &lsquo;why is it that my brother can use the phone whenever he wants?&rdquo;, Anja responds.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In this sense, desktops are appreciated by all as &ldquo;they are family owned, kept in a room where everybody can see what you are doing or is in a school where there is a supervisor to keep a tab on you&rdquo;.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Talking about rural families in small towns and conservative communities in India, they are usually dependent on agriculture which is reeling under agrarian distress at the moment. To build a future, these families understand the value of Internet and technology. While striving for upward mobility, most families are not enforcing a complete ban but monitored usage of the Internet among girls. Anja adds, &ldquo;For them, access to the Internet in private spaces doesn&rsquo;t work as those are essential to blocking relationships that families are uncomfortable with. Facebook thus became a taboo--as they assume that it is not for education but for marriage and to find love.&rdquo;

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Gender gap in mobile phone ownership in the world (Source: GSMA report) (Others)
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An existing notion of the Internet being an evil in conservative communities of India and other low-and-middle-income countries reflect poorly on women&rsquo;s right to expression and freedom. There are 3.6 billion mobile internet users around the world, in which women on average are 14 per cent&nbsp;less likely to own a mobile phone than a man, which translates into 200 million fewer women than men owning mobile phones. Women in South Asia are 38 per cent&nbsp;less likely to own a phone than a man, highlighting that the gender gap in mobile phone ownership is wider in certain parts of the world. (According to GSMA Input into Report on the Digital Gender Divide, February 2017). &nbsp;&nbsp;

Background profile of the woman and her family is very important to judge the level of discrimination and subjective treatment. All those times Delhi Metro leaked footages of couples cosying up in the train or platforms raised an alarm in public, we are forced to think how worse it would affect the people involved. Anja says, &ldquo;For a woman, there is an impact in a way there isn&rsquo;t for a man. It&rsquo;s true even for the most privileged woman because even though I might not adhere to a certain mindset but my neighbours will look at me in a particular way, people around me will look at me in a particular way; it&rsquo;s still a pressure you feel.&rdquo;

As part of a research to find&nbsp;&ldquo;who tames whom on the Internet&rdquo; and &ldquo;why are women policed in India on their Internet usage and access rights&rdquo;, these are some of the most popular answers recorded on a popular social media site:&nbsp;

A 28-year-old newly married girl from Aligarh wrote:&nbsp;&ldquo;He questions my character if I talk on Whatsapp after 7 pm, he thinks I do sexting.&rdquo;

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<h5>He questions my character if I talk on Whatsapp after 7 pm, he thinks I do sexting.</h5>
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A 20-year-old female student from Mumbai lamented:&nbsp;&ldquo;My face featured in one of the most popular searches on a porn website even though I have never had sex in my life. It was taken down after a formal complaint but I became a butt of jokes.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
A 36-year-old male businessman from Ghaziabad audaciously comment,&nbsp;&ldquo;Why do you (girls) need the Internet? Who do you want to expose your body to? What else do you do on Facebook and Instagram&rdquo;

Reinforcing supremacy of one gender over another strengthens in its claim by citing these social norms. Research conducted by GSMA indicates that over centuries, using the same reasons of morality and culture, women have been denied access to technology, especially the kind that enables them to voice their opinion and look beyond.&nbsp;

According to 2015 research on Connected Women titled Bridging the Gender Gap: Mobile Access and Usage in low- and middle-income countries by GSMA: Over 3 billion people in low- and middle-income countries do not own mobile phones, and most of them&mdash;1.7 billion&mdash;are estimated to be female. Nearly two-third&nbsp;of unconnected females live in the South Asia and East Asia &amp; Pacific regions which is not surprising given that these two regions are the largest in terms of population. 
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India has the highest number of women without access to the internet and social media (Source: GSMA report) (Others)
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Dilemmas of being online for women 
&nbsp; 
Women are far behind in numbers in the usage of social media in comparison to men. As cited in the report by GSMA, there are roughly 3 men for every woman on Facebook in India. In 2015, Facebook had 111 million users in India, of which 84 million are men and only 27 million are women.&nbsp;

Three notable exceptions, however, are Egypt, where women use Facebook and Twitter more than men; China, where women and men use WeChat equally; and Jordan, where women and men use Twitter equally.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Apart from social norms and surveillance issues, women also face dangers in the form of cyber security issues while using social media. The term essentially includes everything under online abuse like trolling, sextortion, revenge porn and others.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Working extensively on these issues, Anja discusses, &ldquo;Trolls target both men and women but how men are targeted is very different from how women are targeted. With men it&rsquo;s more like &lsquo;you don&rsquo;t know what you are talking about&rsquo; but for a woman &lsquo;it&rsquo;s always about her sexuality&rsquo;.&nbsp;

&quot;This is what happened with Priyanka Chopra recently when she wore a dress to meet PM Modi. They used words like &lsquo;slut, whore&rsquo; and anything that she has achieved was easily forgotten. In a way, the troll is an extension of surveillance, if surveillance is about policing norms then trolling is policing norms on the internet. They tried to police Priyanka. It was their way of asking her to behave the way they idealise it, like a traditional Indian woman. They were perturbed by the fact that Priyanka, being a woman, is living a happy life as a successful and independent woman.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Trolling is about reinforcing fear on the internet.&rdquo;

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<h5>Trolling is about reinforcing fear on the Internet. A friend of mine insists that our weapon and his are the same on the Internet. Use the keyboard and speak up!</h5>
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&nbsp;

Anja talks about a friend who has a knack of dealing with all trollers. She says, &ldquo;I know a woman who says that &lsquo;your weapon and his weapon are same on the Internet. &nbsp;I have a keyboard, he has a keyboard so then what the f#@! is holding you back? Speak up!&rsquo;&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
Anja believes that trolling is never progressive in nature. &ldquo;They won&rsquo;t ever say &lsquo;man you are so conservative, you should stand up for your rights. Trolling is always reinforcing power. It&rsquo;s a structural thing, linked with surveillance&rdquo;, she adds. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Police records indicate that women these days are most disturbed by the rise in crimes involving images, taken with the aim of morphing, revenge porn and sextortion. Anja says, &ldquo;Women&rsquo;s naked images have a power that naked images of men don&rsquo;t. You can&rsquo;t blackmail a man with naked images because the power is not the same. So who pays the price--disproportionately the woman. Few men who are convicted are usually those blackmailed by a guy in homosexual relationships.&quot; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;The aim should be to expand space for women and not reduce the already narrow space. We need a much more concerted response. We advocate for non-legal responses as you can&rsquo;t go to the police and complain because your timeline is full of words like slut, &nbsp;bitch...That&rsquo;s really troubling.&quot; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Colleagues in Brazil came up with something called &lsquo;Safer nudes&rsquo;: Safer, not safe because you can never be sure. There are apps nowadays that allow you to delete messages from your phone as well as from the one you have sent. Also, there are apps that alert you when someone takes a screenshot of your photo. We need to have knowledge of these things. So if you are sending these images, then avoid Whatsapp because at least other apps will help you send in a safer way. Their dialogue is basically around empowering and giving the control back to women while creating their own space on the Internet.&rdquo;&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A feminist by principle and action, Anja feels it important to start a dialogue for a feminist Internet: one which has a space for women gives them right to sexual expression, consent and control of data. The Internet is a big bad world for women and after all, &ldquo;people around you shape you, especially as a woman&rdquo;, she adds.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
(WION)&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Abused, trolled and barred from using the Internet, women are demanding a feminist Internet which gives them a free space

If you ever thought that the internet was free of any prejudice and that in its basic sense, it gives people equal rights to act and react, then you are wrong. The internet is anything but gender-neutral and there is a growing need for a feminist internet: one which has an equal space for women to sexual expression, consent and control of data. Champion of the feminist internet, Anja Kovacs directs The Internet Democracy Project, an initiative at Point of View which works towards providing opportunities to people whereby they use the Internet informed and judiciously. She points out, “Women have been surveilled by communities and families for centuries. We know the impact that it has. Most people who are open to the kind of things we do can see the restrictions that are there to women that are not on men. This harms women’s lives, shapes their lives in particular ways because they constantly have to be careful of what they are doing, where they are going--they constantly have to justify.” Trends reflect that India is like any other country where patriarchy is strongly steeped within the structure of the society. This often gets translated to the nature of communication communities have within themselves and enforces on individuals, majorly women. There is evidence according to Anja that “the more conservative the family is, the more restricted you are on the Internet”. The more conservative the family is, the more restricted you are on the Internet. × Does it affect all women? She adds, "I think this is actually true for all women, for you and me as well as for the poorest of the poor. I think it plays out differently though depending on your background, location. Also, financial independence as we have seen that money allows you certain things that you will otherwise be restricted from. For example, your family might not be comfortable with you going out in the night but if they know you can take a taxi, you can get a ride from a friend they know, and you have a mobile phone with which they can be in touch with you constantly--then maybe it’s ok. But you have to be able to afford all of that." “The fact that women are surveilled more than men is consistent. This divide might be sharper in India but I don’t think it’s unique to India. A lot of surveillance in India in more conservative communities has really to do with the fears around women’s sexuality and the importance of women’s virginity for the reputation of a family. It’s not just about keeping an individual woman safe but it’s also about maintaining the reputation of the entire family and community. The weight of all that falls on women's shoulders.” On May 3, 2017, a village in UP banned the usage of mobile phones by women, as an order by Khap Panchayat but there’s nothing new in the news. The same diktat was announced in several villages of UP, Haryana and Rajasthan in 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, and even before. According to news reports, every time this ban was pronounced, it was because the Panchayat wanted to restrict women’s communication with men and not vice-versa. In Muzaffarnagar, the banning of mobile phones was supported as though they are bad for girls, create spaces of privacy and independence that will lead to trouble. It should only be allowed ideally after marriage, definitely not before college. × According to Anja: “In Muzaffarnagar, the idea (banning of mobile phones) was supported as though they are bad for girls, create spaces of privacy and independence that will only lead to trouble. It should only be allowed ideally after marriage, definitely not before college. However, the same rules do not apply to boys.” Sadly, this is not just restricted to the elders in Khap Panchayat as the same sentiment is shared by the rural womenfolk too.“We met with a woman in Muzaffarnagar who happens to also work for women empowerment. She introduced us to the phrase ‘chupke, chupke’ (hidden in English). She said that whenever you have to do something ‘chupke chupke’ then it’s always bad. Girls get phones from their boyfriends, stay in bathrooms or separate rooms for long and talk behind closed doors”, narrates Anja. Social norms influence women’s lives Social norms affect women’s role in the society, status, empowerment, and access to education and income in society, and consequently their relationship with mobile technology. It is often hidden within other, more commonly cited barriers that influence women’s access to and use of mobile technology. “Village women only know that the green button is for picking up phone calls and the red one for disconnecting the phone”, says a rural male from India. This, because women are only taught to do this on mobile phones, and that too in the company of others. Why are women not allowed to use the Internet with privacy? “It breaks my heart to tell you that a school teacher in a village told us that the Constitution cannot run at the cost of village way of life. He responded like this when we told him how ironical it was between what was being taught to young girls and what they were practising in real life. These girls who otherwise speak in Hindi, learn words like equality and rights in classrooms but are aware of the contradictions in their life. One girl even questioned us as to ‘why is it that my brother can use the phone whenever he wants?”, Anja responds. In this sense, desktops are appreciated by all as “they are family owned, kept in a room where everybody can see what you are doing or is in a school where there is a supervisor to keep a tab on you”. Talking about rural families in small towns and conservative communities in India, they are usually dependent on agriculture which is reeling under agrarian distress at the moment. To build a future, these families understand the value of Internet and technology. While striving for upward mobility, most families are not enforcing a complete ban but monitored usage of the Internet among girls. Anja adds, “For them, access to the Internet in private spaces doesn’t work as those are essential to blocking relationships that families are uncomfortable with. Facebook thus became a taboo--as they assume that it is not for education but for marriage and to find love.” Gender gap in mobile phone ownership in the world (Source: GSMA report) (Others) × An existing notion of the Internet being an evil in conservative communities of India and other low-and-middle-income countries reflect poorly on women’s right to expression and freedom. There are 3.6 billion mobile internet users around the world, in which women on average are 14 per cent less likely to own a mobile phone than a man, which translates into 200 million fewer women than men owning mobile phones. Women in South Asia are 38 per cent less likely to own a phone than a man, highlighting that the gender gap in mobile phone ownership is wider in certain parts of the world. (According to GSMA Input into Report on the Digital Gender Divide, February 2017). Background profile of the woman and her family is very important to judge the level of discrimination and subjective treatment. All those times Delhi Metro leaked footages of couples cosying up in the train or platforms raised an alarm in public, we are forced to think how worse it would affect the people involved. Anja says, “For a woman, there is an impact in a way there isn’t for a man. It’s true even for the most privileged woman because even though I might not adhere to a certain mindset but my neighbours will look at me in a particular way, people around me will look at me in a particular way; it’s still a pressure you feel.” As part of a research to find “who tames whom on the Internet” and “why are women policed in India on their Internet usage and access rights”, these are some of the most popular answers recorded on a popular social media site: A 28-year-old newly married girl from Aligarh wrote: “He questions my character if I talk on Whatsapp after 7 pm, he thinks I do sexting.” He questions my character if I talk on Whatsapp after 7 pm, he thinks I do sexting. × A 20-year-old female student from Mumbai lamented: “My face featured in one of the most popular searches on a porn website even though I have never had sex in my life. It was taken down after a formal complaint but I became a butt of jokes.” A 36-year-old male businessman from Ghaziabad audaciously comment, “Why do you (girls) need the Internet? Who do you want to expose your body to? What else do you do on Facebook and Instagram” Reinforcing supremacy of one gender over another strengthens in its claim by citing these social norms. Research conducted by GSMA indicates that over centuries, using the same reasons of morality and culture, women have been denied access to technology, especially the kind that enables them to voice their opinion and look beyond. According to 2015 research on Connected Women titled Bridging the Gender Gap: Mobile Access and Usage in low- and middle-income countries by GSMA: Over 3 billion people in low- and middle-income countries do not own mobile phones, and most of them—1.7 billion—are estimated to be female. Nearly two-third of unconnected females live in the South Asia and East Asia & Pacific regions which is not surprising given that these two regions are the largest in terms of population. India has the highest number of women without access to the internet and social media (Source: GSMA report) (Others) × Dilemmas of being online for women Women are far behind in numbers in the usage of social media in comparison to men. As cited in the report by GSMA, there are roughly 3 men for every woman on Facebook in India. In 2015, Facebook had 111 million users in India, of which 84 million are men and only 27 million are women. Three notable exceptions, however, are Egypt, where women use Facebook and Twitter more than men; China, where women and men use WeChat equally; and Jordan, where women and men use Twitter equally. Apart from social norms and surveillance issues, women also face dangers in the form of cyber security issues while using social media. The term essentially includes everything under online abuse like trolling, sextortion, revenge porn and others. Working extensively on these issues, Anja discusses, “Trolls target both men and women but how men are targeted is very different from how women are targeted. With men it’s more like ‘you don’t know what you are talking about’ but for a woman ‘it’s always about her sexuality’. "This is what happened with Priyanka Chopra recently when she wore a dress to meet PM Modi. They used words like ‘slut, whore’ and anything that she has achieved was easily forgotten. In a way, the troll is an extension of surveillance, if surveillance is about policing norms then trolling is policing norms on the internet. They tried to police Priyanka. It was their way of asking her to behave the way they idealise it, like a traditional Indian woman. They were perturbed by the fact that Priyanka, being a woman, is living a happy life as a successful and independent woman. “Trolling is about reinforcing fear on the internet.” Trolling is about reinforcing fear on the Internet. A friend of mine insists that our weapon and his are the same on the Internet. Use the keyboard and speak up! × Anja talks about a friend who has a knack of dealing with all trollers. She says, “I know a woman who says that ‘your weapon and his weapon are same on the Internet. I have a keyboard, he has a keyboard so then what the f#@! is holding you back? Speak up!’” Anja believes that trolling is never progressive in nature. “They won’t ever say ‘man you are so conservative, you should stand up for your rights. Trolling is always reinforcing power. It’s a structural thing, linked with surveillance”, she adds. Police records indicate that women these days are most disturbed by the rise in crimes involving images, taken with the aim of morphing, revenge porn and sextortion. Anja says, “Women’s naked images have a power that naked images of men don’t. You can’t blackmail a man with naked images because the power is not the same. So who pays the price--disproportionately the woman. Few men who are convicted are usually those blackmailed by a guy in homosexual relationships." “The aim should be to expand space for women and not reduce the already narrow space. We need a much more concerted response. We advocate for non-legal responses as you can’t go to the police and complain because your timeline is full of words like slut, bitch...That’s really troubling." “Colleagues in Brazil came up with something called ‘Safer nudes’: Safer, not safe because you can never be sure. There are apps nowadays that allow you to delete messages from your phone as well as from the one you have sent. Also, there are apps that alert you when someone takes a screenshot of your photo. We need to have knowledge of these things. So if you are sending these images, then avoid Whatsapp because at least other apps will help you send in a safer way. Their dialogue is basically around empowering and giving the control back to women while creating their own space on the Internet.” A feminist by principle and action, Anja feels it important to start a dialogue for a feminist Internet: one which has a space for women gives them right to sexual expression, consent and control of data. The Internet is a big bad world for women and after all, “people around you shape you, especially as a woman”, she adds. (WION)

The Internet is bad for Indian women

Coming close on the heels of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath&#39;s order of constituting anti-Romeo squads by the police department to check incidents of harassment of women, the Madhya Pradesh government led by chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has indicated the launch of a similar campaign.

The move will ensure the safety and security of women and check activities of &#39;Majnoos&#39; (Romeos), PTI reported.

&quot;We will reform Majnoo-type of persons. They don&#39;t know how to respect... They are not good for the civilised society... A campaign will be launched against Majnoos,&quot; Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said addressing 89th Passing Out Parade at MP Police Academy here.

The chief minister said that the police should keep a close vigil in places like girls hostel to ensure that women don&#39;t face any difficulty.

&quot;Police should create such an atmosphere so that women are able to move around independently without any fear. It should take stern measures against criminal elements,&quot; he added.

On the role of women in police, the chief minister outlined that they are no less than men in terms of courage and valour and therefore one-third of the posts are reserved for them.

The Uttar Pradesh government formed the anti-romeo squads of police to ensure safety of women.&nbsp;

The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court also backed the move by declining to interfere in the state&#39;s action to form such a squad. The court also highlighted that such a step doesn&#39;t constitute moral policing.

(WION with inputs from PTI)

'We will reform Majnoo-type of persons... They are not good for the civilised society,' chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said

Coming close on the heels of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath's order of constituting anti-Romeo squads by the police department to check incidents of harassment of women, the Madhya Pradesh government led by chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has indicated the launch of a similar campaign. The move will ensure the safety and security of women and check activities of 'Majnoos' (Romeos), PTI reported. "We will reform Majnoo-type of persons. They don't know how to respect... They are not good for the civilised society... A campaign will be launched against Majnoos," Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said addressing 89th Passing Out Parade at MP Police Academy here. The chief minister said that the police should keep a close vigil in places like girls hostel to ensure that women don't face any difficulty. "Police should create such an atmosphere so that women are able to move around independently without any fear. It should take stern measures against criminal elements," he added. On the role of women in police, the chief minister outlined that they are no less than men in terms of courage and valour and therefore one-third of the posts are reserved for them. The Uttar Pradesh government formed the anti-romeo squads of police to ensure safety of women. The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court also backed the move by declining to interfere in the state's action to form such a squad. The court also highlighted that such a step doesn't constitute moral policing. (WION with inputs from PTI)

After UP, now Madhya Pradesh to crack down on 'Romeos'

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