A shocking incident has gained attention after a Delhi woman shares disturbing metro coach experience while traveling from Shalimar Bagh to Rithala on October 8. The incident took place around 9 PM when a middle-aged man, aged between 40 and 45, entered the ladies’ coach and sat beside her. This section of the metro is meant to offer safety and comfort for women commuters. But the woman’s experience turned into a deeply unsettling one.
At first, the situation seemed normal. However, when the man reached into his pocket, his arm brushed against hers. She initially dismissed it as accidental due to his build. Moments later, his arm touched hers again and stayed there longer. The behavior escalated when he leaned closer and rested his elbow behind her shoulder. Feeling uneasy, the woman confronted him and asked, “Uncle, haath kyu rakha hai mere upar?” He apologized but soon placed his hand on her lap and even touched her cheek before leaving at Pitampura station.
The woman described feeling frozen and unable to react. She admitted, “I was so confused and nervous that I didn’t know what to do.” Sharing her story later online, she explained how the memory of his hand on her lap kept haunting her. Her post received an outpouring of support from users, many of whom assured her that she was not to blame. Some encouraged her to report the incident, while others shared similar experiences of harassment in public spaces.
Safety experts advise women in such situations to act quickly, by raising their voice, changing seats, or seeking help from metro staff. Experts also recommend that women carry safety tools like pepper spray and use women-only compartments. Such measures can help prevent harassment and build confidence while commuting.
This case has reignited public debate about women’s safety on public transportation. According to studies, nearly 70% of women in India face some form of harassment during daily commutes. The problem is not limited to Delhi; the National Crime Records Bureau reports that crimes against women in Punjab increased by 18% between 2021 and 2022. Even Chandigarh, often regarded as one of the safest cities. It has seen a rise in incidents that raise concerns about privacy and security.
Authorities have started taking action. Punjab Police has launched initiatives such as the Women Helpline to support victims and provide quick responses to harassment complaints. Discussions are ongoing about installing more surveillance cameras, training metro staff to handle harassment cases, and launching awareness programs. These efforts aim to create a safe and respectful environment for women commuters.
Stories like this underline the importance of public awareness and stronger protective measures. Women must feel safe, respected, and empowered to speak up against such behavior. Building a safer transportation system requires collective effort, from law enforcement and transport authorities to commuters themselves.
In conclusion, the case where a Delhi woman shares disturbing metro coach experience serves as a wake-up call for authorities and society. It highlights the urgent need to prioritize women’s safety on public transport, encourage reporting of harassment, and create a system where every woman can travel without fear or hesitation.
