Fix lights, install CCTVs: Delhi University’s directions to colleges to ensure women’s safety

The University of Delhi has instructed colleges and hostels to address several concerns in order to enhance women's safety on campus. Key measures include repairing non-functional lights, installing CCTV cameras, and trimming overgrown trees that obstruct visibility. College authorities are also tasked with identifying poorly lit areas and other security gaps, submitting their concerns by October 12.

The directives were announced after a virtual meeting attended by college principals, deans, directors, department heads, hostel managers, and resident tutors. The incident that prompted these actions is a student protest following the alleged gang-rape of a 17-year-old girl near Lady Shri Ram College for Women. Students across DU have been advocating for improved security, better street lighting, and safer public spaces.

College principals and senior officials have been asked to assess their premises for blind spots where visibility is limited, repairing faulty lights, adding streetlights in dark areas, and strategically placing CCTV cameras. The university has also mandated gender-sensitisation workshops and a seven-day self-defence course for students, in collaboration with the Delhi Police.

Women's safety helpline numbers 1091 and 112 will be prominently displayed across college and campus premises. Discussions during the meeting also included increasing police presence near colleges and hostels, deploying dedicated surveillance teams, installing more pink booths for women, and improving the functioning of the Vamika police van.

College and hostel authorities are additionally required to collaborate with the university's Engineering department to inspect buildings and report any urgent repairs needed. DU Proctor, Professor Manoj Kumar Singh, emphasized that precautionary measures will be implemented according to the outcomes of the meeting.