DU Students Take to Streets Demanding Safer Public Spaces Under ‘Hum Auratein Azaad Hain’ Campaign

NEW DELHI — Hundreds of Delhi University (DU) students, led primarily by women and queer groups, marched across campuses under the banner “Hum Auratein Azaad Hain” (We Women Are Free) to demand safer public spaces and unconditional freedom of movement.

The massive solidarity marches were triggered by the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old minor inside South Delhi's Aastha Kunj Park on September 21. Three suspects who allegedly posed as police officials were subsequently arrested in connection with the crime.

Key Highlights of the Protest:

• Widespread Participation: Students from prominent DU institutions—including Miranda House, Lady Shri Ram College (LSR), Gargi College, and Kamala Nehru College—gathered carrying placards and shouting slogans against patriarchal norms.

• Rejection of Curfews & Restriction: Protesters challenged systemic restrictions, such as hostel curfews and moral policing, arguing that restricting women’s mobility is not a solution to sexual violence.

• Demand for Structural Infrastructure: Demonstrators called for actionable administrative measures, including well-lit streets, safer public transit, increased campus accountability, and an overhaul of safety infrastructure rather than placing the burden of caution on women.

The protest culminated in marches across both North and South Campuses, with students declaring that true freedom requires moving freely through the city without fear.