Delhi University Students March for Campus Safety Amidst Police Audits
Thousands of students demand safer public spaces and better complaint mechanisms, while police initiate comprehensive safety audits of educational institutions.
Thousands of students demand safer public spaces and better complaint mechanisms, while police initiate comprehensive safety audits of educational institutions.
· Updated
Over 3,000 women students from Delhi University marched through North Campus on Monday, calling for enhanced safety in public and institutional spaces. The demonstration followed an alleged sexual assault incident and highlighted concerns about the handling of sexual harassment complaints within the university.
Students voiced demands for functional Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), improved street lighting, better public transport, and increased accountability for addressing harassment. They also criticized the reliance on surveillance measures over basic safety infrastructure and opposed proposals to restrict access to public spaces after dark.
In parallel, the Delhi police have commenced safety audits of schools, colleges, and other educational institutions across the city. These audits, conducted by senior police officials, examine 16 parameters including physical security, staff verification, CCTV coverage, and safe transport facilities.
The police initiative aims to address safety-related deficiencies identified in previous inspections. The current audits are part of a broader series of safety assessments following recent incidents, with parks also undergoing separate inspections and dark spots being regularly monitored.
FAQ
What were the main demands of the Delhi University students?
Students demanded functional Internal Complaints Committees, better street lighting, improved public transport, greater accountability in handling harassment complaints, and an end to survivor-blaming and moral policing.
What is the scope of the Delhi police's safety audits?
The police are conducting audits across more than 5,000 schools and 30 universities in Delhi, examining 16 parameters related to physical security and child protection measures.