The Hindu Editorial Analysis
08 March 2025
Inclusion in public spaces — from fear to freedom
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)
Topic: GS 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
Context
- Public spaces are essential for socio-economic life and should be designed to make women feel safe and welcome.
Introduction
- India ranks 128 out of 177 countries in the Women, Peace and Security Index 2023, highlighting the urgent need for change.
- Despite extensive research on women’s safety in public spaces, practical changes are minimal.
- Key questions arise about women’s visibility and comfort in public areas.
Gendered Spatial Control
- Importance of Public Spaces:
- Serve as venues for social interactions and community identity.
- Enable political engagement and livelihood opportunities.
- Women’s presence in these spaces indicates safety and comfort.
- Impacts on Women’s Mobility:
- Public spaces are often gendered, restricting women’s freedom.
- Statistical Insights:
- NFHS-4 (2015-16):
- 54% of women can visit markets alone.
- 50% can access healthcare independently.
- 48% can travel outside their community unaccompanied.
- PLFS (2023-24):
- Women’s labor force participation is only 35.6%.
- Women’s Engagement with Public Spaces:
- Often used for commuting rather than leisure.
- Engagement is typically functional and time-bound.
Reclaiming Public Spaces
- Public spaces should be safe and inclusive, allowing women to navigate freely.
- The concept of “Why Loiter?” emphasizes the importance of leisure and presence in public spaces for women.
- Women should feel entitled to occupy these spaces without fear or purpose.
The Issue of Safety
- Women’s Safety:
- Violence against women occurs both in public and private spaces.
- Public spaces often pose higher risks of gendered violence.
- Curated vs. Open Spaces:
- Women gravitate towards curated spaces (malls, cafes) perceived as safer.
- Everyday public spaces remain unwelcoming and uncomfortable for women.
- Community and Government Roles:
- Communities and governments must acknowledge the importance of public spaces for freedom.
- Women should reclaim public spaces to foster autonomy.
Policy-Level Changes
- Government Initiatives:
- Improve public space design (better lighting, accessible facilities).
- Enhance public safety through strict enforcement of laws against gender-based violence.
- Addressing Systemic Issues:
- Low conviction rates for offenders and societal attitudes that blame victims need urgent attention.
- Shift focus from victim-blaming to holding perpetrators accountable.
Conclusion
- Reshaping public spaces can create environments where women feel safe and welcome.
- Meaningful change requires small, consistent actions to challenge patriarchy and foster inclusivity.
- Every shift brings us closer to a society where women can navigate public spaces freely and without fear.