"Why no restrictions on men?": Students back better facilities, extensive patrolling after alleged rape in Kalkaji
Following the Kalkaji incident, Delhi students demand better lighting, patrolling, and education for men instead of restrictions on women.
The recent horrific incidents in Jamui and Kalkaji have reignited a fierce national debate regarding women's safety and the fundamental right of women to navigate public spaces without constant fear.
In Bihar's Jamui district, a viral video surfaced showing a minor girl and her male companion being allegedly harassed and molested by a group of youths. This was followed just days later by a harrowing incident in Delhi, where a 17-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three men in the Aastha Kunj Park near Kalkaji Mandir on her birthday.
Demands for systemic change over restrictions
In the aftermath of the Kalkaji tragedy, protests erupted near Lady Shri Ram (LSR) College and Gargi College. While authorities have taken steps—including a comprehensive safety audit by the DDA and MCD, improved lighting, and increased patrolling—students argue that the burden of safety should not fall solely on women through restrictions.
Students have voiced a clear stance: instead of limiting women's movement, the focus must shift toward educating men and ensuring swift, severe punishment for criminals. "Why shouldn't the restrictions be on men? Why don't you educate them? And put restrictions on them," a student questioned during the protest. "If you publicly punish those rapists, who are basically responsible, it will help."
The fight for basic rights in 2026
For many students, the struggle is about the most basic freedoms. A third-year student from Gargi College expressed the exhaustion felt by young women today. "We are constantly, literally living with fear. I mean, this is really bad that it's 2026 and we are still fighting for basic rights," she said, emphasizing that non-functional streetlights near colleges make walking in the dark a dangerous prospect.
The sentiment among the protesters was that even a lockdown would be ineffective unless there is a fundamental shift in society. "Even if you lock down, there will be no benefit until we educate society," a second-year student remarked, adding that perpetrators of such crimes should face capital punishment, viewing them as essentially "murderers" due to the trauma inflicted.
Addressing the root of 'Rape Culture'
The protests highlighted a deep-seated frustration with how society raises boys and handles accountability. Students argued that the responsibility for safety lies with the government, educational institutions, and families alike.
- Education: Students called for a shift in how men are raised to ensure they do not believe they can commit crimes with impunity.
- Accountability: There is a strong demand for public punishment to serve as a deterrent.
- Infrastructure: Immediate fixes to street lighting and increased presence of 'pink police' and security personnel are essential.
As the movement continues, the central message from the youth remains clear: women should not have to choose between their freedom and their safety. They are demanding the right to simply exist in public spaces—to walk, travel, and be outside—without the constant shadow of harassment or assault.