DELHI’S YOUNG WOMEN DEMAND NATIONAL ACTION AS SAFETY CONCERNS SPARK FRESH CALL FOR REFORM

October 2, 2026

Hundreds of female students and activists in New Delhi have called for a coordinated national response to crimes against women, placing parliamentary accountability, a comprehensive review of reported offences and gender sensitisation at the centre of their demands. The proposals emerged from a consultation held on October 1 at the YMCA Tourist Hostel Auditorium in central Delhi under the banner of “Adhikar Abhi Nyay Abhi.”

The participants called for a dedicated two-day discussion on women’s safety in Parliament before Navratri, urging lawmakers to address the issue at the national level. They also demanded a 90-day, state-wise audit of crimes against women to assess the scale of reported offences, examine institutional responses and identify areas requiring stronger accountability.

A third major demand was the introduction of mandatory gender-sensitisation programmes in all government and private educational institutions. Participants argued that sustained awareness and education should form part of wider efforts to address gender-based violence and promote safer environments for women and girls.

The consultation brought together students, activists, lawyers and other participants, including anti-rape activist Yogita Bhayana and senior advocate Shobha Gupta, who represented Bilkis Bano. Organisers said the meeting was intended to provide a platform for young women to discuss safety concerns and collectively develop proposals for institutional action.

The meeting took place amid protests by women students from several Delhi University colleges following the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old schoolgirl at Aastha Kunj Park in south Delhi’s Kalkaji. The incident has intensified concerns among students about their safety in public spaces and renewed demands for stronger preventive measures and accountability.

Organisers said the three proposals would be collectively drafted and formally submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office. Participants also called for sustained institutional efforts to prevent sexual violence, improve responses to complaints and ensure that women can pursue education and move through public spaces without fear. The demands add to wider student-led calls for improved safety arrangements and stronger action against gender-based violence in the national capital.