Delhi Women Walk for Nirbhaya

To commemorate Nirbhaya, the 23-year-old student who suffered a brutal assault and succumbed to her injuries 11 years ago, women have been walking through dimly lit areas in south Delhi as part of the ‘Women Walk at Midnight’ campaign. The initiative aims to “reclaim public spaces” and pay tribute to the tragic incident that occurred on December 16, 2012.

Curated by Mallika Taneja, the campaign began on a reflective note, emphasizing the significance of walking the 9-km stretch to remember the fateful night.

Since 2017, women from various parts of the city have united for the ‘Women Walk to Remember,’ specifically dedicated to Nirbhaya. The walk commenced from Select City Mall at 11 p.m., taking the participants through uneven pavements and poorly lit areas towards Munirka. The journey, laden with symbolic meaning, is a way for women to connect with the city and reflect on the challenges they face, especially during nighttime.

The walk also shed light on practical issues faced by women, such as the lack of accessible public toilets. Despite the challenges, the initiative serves as a platform for women to come together, explore the city, and address safety concerns.

The undeterred group continued their walk, reaching the infamous bus stop where Nirbhaya and her companion boarded the ill-fated vehicle. Despite reminders to authorities about addressing safety concerns, little progress has been made in improving conditions.

The campaign aims not only to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women in public spaces but also to remember Nirbhaya’s ordeal, highlighting the need for societal change. As the women completed the walk, they shared moments of joy and reflection, underscoring the ongoing struggle for women’s safety and the collective responsibility to create a safer environment.

The annual event serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic incident and the resilience of those striving for a safer and more inclusive society.

_{Repurposed article originally published in the Hindu}