IN times when technological advancements and societal progress should ideally ensure safety and equality of women, the reality for many girls and women in various remains dismal. Despite being in the 21st century, a time where human rights and personal freedoms are more discussed than ever, the safety of girls continues to be a critical issue, largely due to systemic failures and the alarming behaviour of certain individuals. From the very institutions that are meant to nurture and protect- like schools and colleges-to every other place one can imagine, safety of girls is often compromised. Reports of harassment, assault and exploitation are disturbingly common, highlighting a deeply entrenched problem that society has yet to effectively address. Girls must constantly guard themselves against unwanted advances and abusive behaviour. This environment not only hampers their education but also affects their mental health, selfesteem and overall development.

 

The recent incident of Kolkata underlines the fact that even hospitals are not safe, whether the woman is a patient, a nurse or even a doctor. Public transport, particularly cabs, in another area of concern. With increasing reports of harassment and assault by drivers, many girls feel unsafe travelling alone, especially during late hours. Despite numerous promises, policies and campaigns from Government side, implementation often falls short. For instance, many schools and colleges lack proper security personnel, surveillance system and protocols to handle incidents of harassment or abuse. Hospitals often suffer from insufficient checks on staff behaviour and patient security. In public transport, the absence of stringent background checks for drivers, panic buttons, or real-time tracking further exacerbates the problem. It is time for the government to take decisive and immediate action. First and foremost, there needs to be a robust framework for implementing and enforcing safety measures across all public spaces. This includes stricter laws with severe penalties for offenders, regular audits of security practices in schools, colleges, hospitals and transport services and ensuring that these institutions are held accountable for any lapses. Moreover, awareness campaigns should be intensified for men as well as women. The safety of girls in public spaces is not just a women’s issue, it is a societal issue that reflects the values and priorities of a community.