Why in news?
The National Annual Report and Index on Women’s Safety (NARI 2025) released its findings. The report surveyed women across Indian cities to capture experiences of harassment and perceptions of safety.
Methodology
The survey covered 12,770 women aged 18 and above from 31 cities. It collected data on personal experiences, reporting behaviour and perceptions of safety at home, in public spaces and at work.
Key findings
- About 40 % of respondents said they felt unsafe in their city. Young women aged 18–24 reported the highest levels of anxiety.
- Seven per cent of respondents experienced harassment in 2024, a higher figure than police statistics suggest.
- Only 22 % of women reported incidents to authorities, citing fear of stigma, long procedures and scepticism that action would be taken.
- Harassment often took the form of staring, catcalling, lewd comments and inappropriate touching. Poor lighting, unsafe public transport and lack of public toilets exacerbated risks.
- Kolkata, Delhi, Ranchi, Srinagar and Faridabad ranked lowest on perceived safety; Mumbai, Kohima, Bhubaneswar, Gangtok and Itanagar ranked highest.
- About 53 % of respondents were unsure whether their workplace had a policy on sexual harassment (POSH Act) and how to file complaints.
Implications
- Urban planning: Better street lighting, last‑mile transport and safe public toilets can make cities more secure for women.
- Law enforcement: Police need to be more responsive and adopt technology such as emergency apps and CCTV to deter offenders.
- Awareness: Employers must publicise their internal complaint mechanisms and train staff about the POSH Act.
- Social norms: Public campaigns should challenge attitudes that normalise harassment and encourage bystander intervention.
Relevance for governance and society
- Gender equality: Women’s safety is a prerequisite for equal participation in education, employment and public life.
- Urbanisation: As India’s cities grow, planners must design inclusive public spaces that cater to all genders and ages.
- Internal security: Addressing harassment requires coordination between municipal bodies, police and civil society.