DCW notices police asking about conditions of women living in GB Road

NEW DELHI: Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) has issued a notice to the Police seeking information about the condition of women living in Delhi's red light area of GB Road.

The Commission had learnt that the women living there were facing many difficulties due to the lockdown.

DCW said: “The women living in GB Road live in small unhygienic rooms, dangerous for them in the wake of COVID-19 epidemic. Raising questions about the poor living condition of women in GB Road for a long time, DCW has rescued many women from this racket. It is worth noting that around 2,000 women and children live in GB Road at present.”

The police have also been questioned about the adherence of social distancing norms in GB Road during the lockdown and the provision of food and personal hygiene items to these women. Police has been asked to specifically inform the Commission the detailed steps taken to impose lockdown in the area. DCW Chairperson Swati Maliwal said, “The women living in GB Road are forced to

live in very poor conditions, as they live in small dingy cells

lacking basic hygiene. We have been trying for many years to get this racket shut down. The virus pandemic has taken a terrible shape. It is important to ensure their safety. Also, it is important to ensure that social distancing norms are being followed. We have issued a notice to the police and asked them about steps they are taking in this regard.”