Bangalore Metro to Allow Women to Carry Pepper Spray post Violent Reactions

Women Safety

Posted by AI on 2025-07-15 11:49:08 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-16 11:06:26

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In a welcome move, women in Bangalore can soon carry pepper spray on the city's metro network, after the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) decided to lift an unofficial ban on the weapon. This decision comes after several instances of sexual violence, including the horrific rape and murder of a Hyderabadi veterinarian, sparked debates over women's safety on public transport. The BMRCL has since directed all security staff to allow women to carry pepper sprays.

Previously, pepper sprays were confiscated by metro staff as they were considered inflammable. Women who carried the weapon were often confronted by security and made to leave the station, leaving them vulnerable. This unacceptable situation led to public outrage and prompted a reassessment of the ruling.

Anusha, a regular metro user, highlighted the importance of carrying pepper spray for personal safety. "At a time when we are unsafe on the streets, how can authorities stop us from carrying something which is important for our self-defense?" she asked.

This decision is a positive step towards ensuring women feel safer using public transport in Bangalore. Let's hope other public transport authorities across the country take similar steps to empower women fighting for their personal safety.

Quote:

"We have decided to allow women to carry pepper spray as a means of self-defense. All security staff at the station have been directed to allow women to carry pepper sprays," BL Yeshwanth Chavan, Chief Public Relations Officer, BMRCL

Conclusion:

Questionable decisions like confiscating pepper spray from women stoke public outrage and deserve a reassessment. Such rules leave women vulnerable to violence and undermine their right to personal safety. The move by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL) to allow women to carry pepper spray on the metro is a positive step towards empowering women in the city.

Women should feel safe using public transport without the fear of harassment, and BMRCL's decision is a step towards achieving that. Let's hope other authorities across the country follow suit and take concrete actions to empower women against any form of sexual violence.

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