Pov: Women in Jamia

The central university, Jamia Millia Islamia, stands as a beacon of inclusive education and cultural diversity. Ranked 3rd among Indian universities by the NIRF, it attracts students from across the country who arrive with high expectations—not only of academic excellence but also of a secure, nurturing environment.

The university’s progressive stance on women’s education has been widely acknowledged, and despite lingering preconceived notions, its atmosphere, particularly for women living in Delhi, is largely welcoming. However, beneath this commendable image lie gaps in infrastructure and systemic issues that challenge the narrative of safety and inclusivity the institution projects.

Safety is a stated priority of the administration, and during the daytime, the campus does feel secure. Departments, hallways, canteens, and libraries are bustling with activity, creating a lively atmosphere where women report feeling at ease. Yet, this security dissipates as the sun sets. For women attending evening classes or studying late at the library, the campus transforms into an intimidating space. Poor lighting, insufficient security personnel, and inadequate surveillance in key areas contribute to a sense of vulnerability.

Gate No. 7 stands as a glaring example of this issue. The area is so poorly lit that even recognizing faces becomes impossible, raising concerns about safety and accountability in the event of harassment. Women residing in hostels near Gate No. 8 share similar fears, describing their nightly walks back as unnerving. Some even avoid venturing out alone after dark. In a city like Delhi, where women already navigate public spaces with caution, the lack of adequate lighting on a university campus feels like a fundamental oversight.

Such infrastructural deficiencies beg the question: Does a university ranked among the nation’s best truly reflect the standards it claims to uphold? This sense of insecurity is compounded by the curfew timings imposed on women’s hostel residents. While these restrictions may stem from a place of good intention, they inadvertently reinforce a sense of inequality.

By curtailing women’s freedom to move freely even within campus premises after 10 PM, the institution shifts the burden of safety onto women rather than addressing systemic shortcomings. This approach raises uncomfortable questions about how much faith the administration itself places in the campus’s safety measures.

Another significant gap lies in the lack of comprehensive CCTV surveillance. While certain areas are monitored, vast sections of the campus remain uncovered. This inconsistency has real consequences: incidents of harassment might have been prevented or resolved more swiftly had there been proper surveillance.

he absence of adequate security infrastructure not only makes women feel unsafe but also undermines the institution’s commitment to protecting its students. Furthermore, the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), which should serve as a safe and accessible avenue for addressing grievances, is often viewed as opaque and unapproachable, discouraging women from seeking redress.

The presence of unauthorized individuals on campus has also been a recurring issue. Although the university has made efforts to curb this, the lingering presence of unaffiliated men continues to be a source of discomfort for many women. While not all interactions lead to harassment, the mere presence of unfamiliar and unsupervised men in spaces meant for students fosters an environment of unease.

These physical and systemic gaps are further complicated by societal attitudes, which seep into the university’s culture despite its progressive stance. Women report being judged for their clothing choices, regardless of whether they dress boldly or modestly. Those who adhere to traditional norms, including women observing Parda, often face unsolicited advice, sometimes couched in religious rhetoric. Conversely, women who dress more modernly recount experiences of being scrutinized or objectified.

Yet, it is essential to acknowledge the positives. Many women emphasize that they feel safer and more respected on Jamia’s campus than in other parts of Delhi or even on other university campuses. The university’s efforts to foster inclusivity and provide dedicated spaces for women are praiseworthy and appreciated. However, these advancements cannot overshadow the pressing need to address the existing gaps in infrastructure, security, and cultural sensitivity.

As students of such a prestigious institution, it is incumbent upon us to engage critically with these issues. A campus that prides itself on inclusivity and academic excellence must also be a space where every student, regardless of gender, feels genuinely safe and respected. Addressing these challenges requires collective action—from the administration, faculty, and students alike. By fostering open dialogue, demanding accountability, and advocating for systemic change, we can transform Jamia into a model of true inclusivity and safety. If we fail to act, we not only compromise the well-being of current students but also the integrity of the institution and the generations it seeks to inspire.

Freya Thakur is pursuing English Literature, and Inaaya Haque is pursuing Psychology Hons. from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Edited by: Sana Faiz

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of The Jamia Review or its members.