Safety Among Parameters In Countrywide Ranking System For Working Women’s Hostels

The Indian government is reportedly preparing to launch a new ranking system for working women’s hostels across the country, focussing on security and other key factors. This initiative comes in response to recent cases of violence against women in their own living spaces, including a tragic incident in Kolkata that highlighted the need for safer environments.

Countrywide Ranking System For Working Women's Hostels

The ranking system will be accessible through a dedicated website, creating a centralised resource for information about women’s hostels. The portal will feature and rank all existing hostels managed by private entities and institutions, as well as central and state governments in cities nationwide. This effort is aimed at increasing female workforce participation, particularly in urban areas.

According to The Hindu, the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has collaborated with the Quality Council of India (QCI) to establish criteria for these rankings. The proposed parameters, which include safety, cleanliness, and essential facilities, are being reviewed and will be circulated to state governments for implementation.

Initially, the plan is to include 200 hostels per year, with a goal of reaching 1,000 hostels over the next five years. The process will be voluntary for hostels.

Expansion of Hostels and New Initiatives

In addition to the ranking system, the government is working to expand the number of women’s hostels. 'Nirbhaya' hostels, which provide both residential and transit accommodation, have already been established in several states with a fund-sharing arrangement between the central and state governments.

The existing 'Sakhi Nivas' scheme, launched under Mission Shakti, provides financial assistance for working women’s hostels, including daycare facilities for children. Currently, there are 494 functioning hostels under this scheme.

In the last month, a series of disturbing incidents have emerged, highlighting significant issues with unethical practices and sexual assault in women's hostels. One alarming case involved the discovery of a hidden camera in a women’s hostel toilet in Andhra Pradesh. Over 300 pictures and videos were circulated, sparking widespread outrage and concern. Another incident involved protests by students at NIT Trichy, who rallied against a sexual harassment incident that occurred in their women's hostel. The situation has drawn attention to serious lapses in hostel security.

Moreover, this year more cases emerged, like a class 9th student in Karnataka getting pregnant and giving birth in a hostel and a class 10th student suicide case in a Hyderabad hostel, further highlighting ongoing issues with safety and support in these facilities. These incidents collectively underscored the urgent need for improved oversight and safety measures in hostels across the country.