The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has proposed several new safety measures aimed at enhancing the protection of women in public and commercial spaces. Among the key recommendations discussed at a meeting on October 28 in Lucknow, the commission has suggested banning male tailors from taking women’s measurements and restricting male trainers from conducting gym and yoga sessions for women. These proposals are part of a broader initiative to ensure safer environments for women across the state.
The proposals, which are still in the preliminary discussion phase, also include the placement of female security personnel on school buses and the hiring of female staff in women’s clothing stores. According to Maneesha Ahlawat, a member of the commission, the feasibility of these measures is yet to be evaluated, and once they are approved, they will be submitted to the government for implementation at the ground level.
One of the notable immediate actions has been directed by Shamli district probation officer Hamid Hussain, who has instructed local establishments to begin adopting new safety protocols. These include the appointment of female trainers in women’s gyms, yoga centers, and drama schools, alongside the installation of CCTV cameras with DVR capabilities for continuous monitoring. Hussain has also mandated that school buses in Shamli be equipped with a female security guard or teacher for added protection.
Additionally, female tailors must be hired in boutiques where women’s measurements are taken, and these stores will be required to implement CCTV surveillance. Coaching centers are also required to install CCTV cameras and ensure women have access to proper restroom facilities.
Local social worker Veena Agrawal has expressed support for these measures, noting that they are essential in creating a more supportive and secure environment for women in public spaces. Agrawal emphasized that such measures would help address safety concerns while empowering women to feel more secure in their daily activities.
In a related development, Haryana police introduced a real-time tracking feature on WhatsApp in September, aimed at enhancing women’s safety. This feature, which is part of the state’s Emergency Response Support System, allows women, especially those traveling alone at night, to share their live location with police for immediate assistance.
The new safety initiatives in Uttar Pradesh follow similar steps taken across the country, including Haryana’s innovative tracking system, highlighting a growing focus on improving women’s safety and security in public and commercial spaces.
Sources By Agencies