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India’s Kerala state holds ‘Girls Night Out’ drive to encourage women to feel safe after dark
- A 2018 survey of global experts on women’s issues ranked India as the most dangerous country for women, citing a high risk of sexual violence
- Government data in 2021 showed a 13 per cent increase of crimes against women recorded compared to 2020, and a 19 per cent rise in cases of rape
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A “Girls Night Out” initiative in the Indian state of Kerala aimed at allowing women to experience night life safely has shone a spotlight on a major issue of concern in a country once identified as the world’s most dangerous place for women.
The four-day campaign, started by Mathew Kuzhalnadan, a representative of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, saw a half-kilometre stretch of a state highway decorated with festive lighting and food stalls from 5.30pm to 11.30pm.
Live music performances, Zumba dance and training, and a women’s marathon were some of the many activities organised as part of the initiative.
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India – a hugely patriarchal society – has faced criticism for the lack of safety experienced by women. In some parts of the country, women do not feel safe outside their homes after dark.
A 2018 survey of global experts on women’s issues by Thomson Reuters ranked India as the most dangerous country for women, citing a high risk of sexual violence.
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