Despite countless promises and policies, the capital continues to fall short on women’s safety

In yet another harrowing incident that highlights Delhi’s persistent reputation as the “rape capital” of India, a young woman was allegedly gang-raped by three men near the busy ITO chowk. On October 10, 2024, the survivor, a community leader and researcher from Puri, Odisha, was assaulted and then abandoned near the Sarai Kale Khan area. It would take more than three weeks for Delhi Police to apprehend the suspects in what was an elaborate and challenging investigation. This case, though one among many, casts an intense spotlight on Delhi’s persistent challenges with women’s safety. Despite widespread public outrage, nationwide protests, and even legislative reforms spurred by the 2012 Nirbhaya case, the city remains one of the most dangerous places for women. This incident underscores the gaps in ensuring safety, accountability, and justice for women, despite heightened scrutiny and the promises made over the years. In the wake of the Nirbhaya gang rape, public demands for justice led to significant legal reforms, including amendments to the Criminal Law in 2013. These included harsher punishments for sexual offenders and the establishment of fast-track courts. The Delhi Police increased surveillance, deployed women patrol teams, and set up additional helplines. However, cases like this illustrate that systemic changes alone haven’t proven sufficient to curb these crimes.Although police presence has increased, patrols are often sparse in secluded areas where many such crimes occur.

There are also challenges with delayed response times and gaps in the training and sensitivity of law enforcement officials towards victims of sexual violence. Crimes against women are frequently dismissed or downplayed, especially in cases where victims are perceived as “easy targets.” The perpetrators in this case allegedly targeted the survivor believing she was mentally unwell. Many survivors face severe trauma, which impacts their ability to recount details of the assault or pursue legal recourse effectively. While authorities in this case took extraordinary steps to support the survivor, such efforts are still rare. Establishing accessible and widespread trauma-informed support systems is crucial for the safety and wellbeing of survivors. This horrific incident should prompt a critical examination of the measures that have failed Delhi’s women. Reforms need to extend beyond legal frameworks and involve deeper societal and systemic changes. Expanding surveillance to cover secluded areas, introducing real-time monitoring could enhance response times and deter potential offenders. Law enforcement must receive adequate training in trauma-informed approaches, victim sensitivity, and rigorous investigative procedures. Transforming societal attitudes towards women and sexual violence is critical. Public campaigns and educational programmes that challenge stereotypes and promote empathy can help change the culture that enables such violence.