Guwahati Women Advocate for Enhanced Safety and Essential Facilities on International Women's Day
On the occasion of International Women's Day, female residents of Guwahati voiced strong demands for improved safety protocols in professional environments and better surveillance systems across public spaces to ensure women feel secure while navigating the city. The calls emphasized the urgent need for dedicated breastfeeding areas for mothers, pointing to a significant gap in basic infrastructure that supports women's needs.
Workplace Challenges and Lack of Respect
Despite the increasing representation of women in the workforce, many basic amenities that cater specifically to their requirements remain conspicuously absent. Parismita Dutta, a local resident, highlighted this disparity, stating, "Even today, women contribute significantly to the workforce, but there is still not much respect for them. They often have to deal with judgment and unnecessary scrutiny, which makes the workplace discouraging for many of us." This sentiment underscores a broader issue of workplace culture that fails to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for women.
Critical Need for Breastfeeding Spaces
Working mothers, in particular, drew attention to the absence of designated breastfeeding spaces in both office settings and public areas. They explained that this deficiency often forces women to resort to uncomfortable and unhygienic alternatives. Reita Bhattacharyya, a resident of the Athgaon area, elaborated, "If we go around the city, we will hardly find a single proper and functional breastfeeding space. There must be designated spaces with adequate privacy so that working mothers can feed their babies with dignity while continuing their professional responsibilities." This lack of facilities not only inconveniences mothers but also poses health risks and undermines their ability to balance career and family life effectively.
Safety Concerns Amid Urban Development
While Guwahati has experienced rapid growth with the emergence of modern infrastructure, women report that safety on the streets continues to be a major concern. Many express anxiety about walking alone at night, fearing encounters with anti-social elements. Swapna Acharjee, whose mobile phone was recently snatched by two youths on a speeding scooter, shared, "Despite the development we see around us, basic safety is still a concern for women. Many of us hesitate to walk alone or step outside our homes." She added that enhanced measures such as increased police patrolling, installation of CCTV cameras, improved lighting in smaller lanes, and efforts to curb drug-related activities are essential to address these security issues.
The collective demands from Guwahati's women highlight a pressing need for systemic changes that prioritize their safety and well-being. As the city progresses, integrating these facilities and safety measures into urban planning could significantly improve the quality of life for female residents, ensuring they can participate fully in both professional and public spheres without fear or inconvenience.
