Aastha Kunj Park Security Tightened After Minor's Gang-Rape
DDA installs 105 new lights and CCTVs at Aastha Kunj Park following the gang-rape of a minor girl in September. Read more on the safety upgrades.
Following a harrowing incident involving the gang-rape of a minor girl in September, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has significantly ramped up security measures at Aastha Kunj Park in Delhi’s Kalkaji. The move comes after a safety audit and public concerns highlighted critical gaps in lighting and surveillance within the massive 142.41-acre green space.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades
To eliminate dark spots where criminals could hide, the DDA has focused heavily on illumination. While all 340 existing lights are now functional, an additional 105 lights have been installed based on the recommendations of a Safety Audit Report. Furthermore, the authority is currently processing a proposal to install high-mast lights at specific strategic locations to ensure better visibility.
The security overhaul also includes the following technical and physical improvements:
- CCTV Surveillance: Four new CCTV cameras have been installed and are fully operational to monitor park activity.
- Boundary Reinforcement: All damaged sections of the boundary wall have been repaired to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Gate Security: All 29 gates have been made lockable, and wicket gates are strictly closed by 9 pm.
Enhanced Patrolling and Monitoring
Beyond infrastructure, the DDA has intensified its human surveillance. All allotted security guards are now deployed, and patrolling has been made more rigorous. For night security, two motorcycles equipped with sirens, torches, and essential safety gear are now in use.
To ensure guards are not neglecting their duties, the DDA has implemented a strict monitoring system. Security personnel must mark their attendance biometrically multiple times, supplemented by physical roll calls. This data is tracked via a digital dashboard. Additionally, the Site In-charge, Security Supervisor, and departmental staff are conducting surprise night inspections to verify guard deployment.
Balancing Safety with Ecology
The DDA noted that approximately 99 per cent of the park is part of the Morphological Ridge. Because of this ecological sensitivity, the authority stated that additional lighting in densely vegetated areas is being planned carefully. The goal is to provide adequate illumination along visitor pathways without disturbing the natural flora and fauna of the ridge.
The Incident That Triggered the Crackdown
These measures follow a brutal crime that occurred on September 21. A 17-year-old girl and her friend had visited the Kalkaji Mandir and subsequently entered Aastha Kunj Park through Gate No. 7. According to the victim's statement, three men posing as police officers separated her from her friend and forced her into a secluded area.
The assailants allegedly used a knife and a firearm to threaten her before sexually assaulting her. Both the victim and her friend were threatened by the attackers before they fled. Following the incident, the victim underwent a medical examination at AIIMS Hospital, and the Crime/FSL team collected evidence from the scene.
The Delhi Police registered a case under Sections 6/17 of the POCSO Act at the Amar Colony Police Station. Three suspects—identified as Hemant, Mukesh, and Asif—were arrested. On October 8, Special POCSO Judge Swati Sharma of the Saket court extended their judicial custody for another 14 days.