India faces alarming rates of crimes against women including rape, domestic violence, harassment, acid attacks, dowry deaths and human trafficking.India reported 3.71 lakh crimes against women in 2020, up 7.3% from 2019.To immediately enhance women’s safety the government should –

1. Increased police presence and visibility deters potential offenders, provides swift response and reassures women of protection and safety.
2.  Robust law enforcement ensures swift investigation, prosecution and conviction of offenders discouraging crimes and safeguarding women’s rights effectively.
3. Accessible women friendly reporting mechanisms empower victims to report crimes confidently, ensuring prompt action , justice and accountability.
4.  Enhanced legal aid and support services provide victims with necessary resources, protection and guidance, ensuring justice and empowerment.
5.  Intensified awareness campaigns challenge societal norms educate communities and promote gender equality, preventing violence and empowering women.
6.  Women’s helplines and emergency services provide immediate support, rescue and guidance ensuring timely intervention and safety assurance.
7. Community collaborations foster grassroots engagement, mobilizing local support, educating men and women and preventing violence through collective action.
8.  Self defense training programs empower women with physical and mental confidence enabling effective resistance against potential threats and assaults.
9. Improved street lighting and public infrastructure enhances visibility, deters crime and creates secure environments for women’s mobility and freedom.
10.  Strict punishment for convicts serves as deterrent discourages repeat offenses and ensures justice, accountability and women’s safety assurance.