Navigating the Risks of Stray Incidents: Protecting Safety on Campus

Have you ever felt unsafe in a place where you didn't belong? For me, the feeling of profound insecurity hit me one monsoon season in Kota, when I faced a disturbing encounter that left a lingering impact. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of campus safety and personal vigilance.

A Hampster in the Monsoon

Those who have ever studied in the bustling city of Kota know that it can become overwhelming during the monsoon season. One such day, I was returning from my classes with a group of friends when a peculiar vehicle caught my attention. Among the downpours, an old black Scorpium pulled up next to us, with a strange ambiance creating a stir. The person who emerged was a lurking, elderly man who struck me as unsettling right from the start.

Wearing traditional Rajasthani attire and adorned with multiple rings, a long beard, and dark glasses, he seemed to be in his mid-60s or 70s. What quickly became apparent was his intoxicated state, evident from the open bottles of liquor on his seats. The odor from the spilled liquids was overpowering—a potent mix of alcohol and the ominous atmosphere.

The Incident

The conversation that followed was the embodiment of unsettling coercion. He attempted to make lewd propositions, threatening me with harm if I did not acquiesce. His crude remarks, in particular, still resound with a chilling effect:

“aao gudiya tujhe ghar tak chod du”
“mere sath chalo vrna baarish me bheeng jaogi”
“Mere sath chalogi to itna padhai likhayi karne ki zarurat nahi padegi ameer bana dunga”

Translation:

“Come, girl, I’ll take you home.”
“Come with me or else you'll get drenched in the rain.”
“If you come with me, you won't need to study so hard! I’ll make you rich.”

My boldness, nurtured by my upbringing and the absence of other witnesses, compelled me to record the encounter. The incident also revealed the severity of the situation, as many of my female classmates were victims of similar harassment by this same reprehensible individual. The impact of his actions was widespread, with some even stopping their classes out of fear.

Safe Guarding the Campus

The realization that this wasn't a isolated incident fueled a collective effort. We alerted our batchmates and informed our mentors about the menace. Our curriculum coaching institute took immediate action, creating an ASWS (Area Safety Watch System) committee dedicated to ensuring student safety.

Through our endeavors, we finally identified the suspect's car, allowing our security forces to capture the perpetrator. This marked a significant turning point, ensuring that such incidents would no longer occur.

Conclusion and Takeaway

While the monsoon season in Kota may have instilled a sense of insecurity in me, the incident solidified the fact that safeguarding our personal safety is our ultimate responsibility. Here’s the takeaway for all girls reading this:

Be aware and proactive about your surroundings. Carry a pepper spray with you at all times. Remain bold and assertive in the face of threats and harassment.

Your safety is in your hands. By being vigilant and prepared, you can navigate these challenges with confidence and security.