Women staying in paying guest (PG) accommodations in Bangalore are a bit worried and feel unsafe in the wake of the recent sexual abuse cases in the City.
The sense of being unsafe stems from the fact that owners of several PGs have not taken measures to increase the security.
A woman was raped at a PG facility in Electronics City last month, raising concerns over the safety of women in PGs.
Dimple Uchil, residing on New BEL Road, said: “Security measures have not increased. There is one watchman, despite the presence of many boys’ hostels and PGs around. The deadline for returning to the PG homes at night has also not been revised.”
Vijaya, who resides in a PG in Jayanagar, said, “Though security is no problem, it can be improved. There is one girl who makes entries of the check-in timings of the inmates. Apart from this, there is no additional safety measure. The timings to return to the PG at night remain the same.”
In some places, there are no security guards, but owners have dogs which are like guards. Amrita Singh, staying in Ejipura, said, “I don’t think any body in Bangalore is concerned about safety of those staying in PGs. But the place where I stay is safe because of the dogs.
The owner has two dogs which do not allow any strangers, especially men, to enter inside. They bark aloud and turn ferocious when strangers try to enter.
There are no security guards or time register here. Though security is not 100 per cent, it is at least 70 per cent, because of the canines.”
In some PGs, there are CCTV cameras, but they do not work. Nikki M, residing in Jakkasandra, said, “The owner has installed CCTV cameras, but it is very evident that they are not working as the red light is not on. Apart from this, there is nothing for the security of women.”
In some areas where there is a large number of PGs, like on Hosur Road, there is police patrolling. Nikita Sawadia, who stays in Chikkalakshmi Layout, said, “Since there are many colleges in this college area and there are over 15 PG accommodations, one can find police patrolling jeeps at night. Apart from this, there is no additional security.”
Alok Kumar, Additional Commissioner (law and order), told Deccan Herald, “We were under the impression that owners have taken responsibility and are providing adequate security.
But it is unfortunate that it is still lacking. Security needs to be enhanced in PGs. CCTVs should be installed and they should be working always, not just at night. We will issue fresh guidelines soon and ensure they are implemented. We will also map all PG areas and increase patrolling. Just give us some time.”