To protect women, UP panel recommends restricting men from interacting with women at salons and tailor shops

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has proposed a series of measures aimed at protecting women from “bad touch” in public spaces, including recommendations that only female staff should take measurements at tailor shops, cut women’s hair in salons, and train women in gyms. These proposals are part of a broader initiative by the commission to curb inappropriate behaviour and improve women’s safety.

The recommendations were outlined in a meeting on October 28, where the commission highlighted an increase in complaints about uncomfortable encounters involving male trainers and tailors. Babita Chauhan, chairperson of the women’s commission, clarified that while male tailors and trainers aren’t banned, only women should be involved in activities that require physical contact.

In addition to these guidelines, the commission suggests mandating CCTV installations in gyms, boutiques, and coaching centers, as well as requiring female security on school buses. Letters regarding the proposals have been sent to district magistrates across Uttar Pradesh to encourage compliance and raise awareness.

Rationale behind the proposal

The guidelines seek to ensure a more comfortable environment for women by limiting men’s roles in certain professions where physical proximity is required. “There have been increasing complaints of ‘bad touch’ by male trainers in gyms and in women’s boutiques,” Chauhan explained, adding that measures like these could prevent misconduct while promoting job opportunities for women in these fields.

The commission also envisions that this shift would help create more employment opportunities for women, though it acknowledges that training and hiring may take time to implement.

Mixed reactions to the proposal

While some social workers and women’s advocates support the initiative, citing frequent complaints of harassment in tailor shops, the proposal has sparked debate. Social workers like Veena Sharma and Mohsina Choudhary have expressed approval, calling for these guidelines to be enshrined in law to enhance women’s safety.

However, Samajwadi Party MLA Ragini Sonkar criticised the proposal, arguing that it restricts individual choice. Sonkar, an MLA from Machhlishahr, emphasised that women should have the freedom to decide if they prefer male or female attendants at gyms or tailor shops. “This should be an individual choice,” she noted, expressing reservations about imposing restrictions based on gender.

Others in the industry, like boutique owner Supriya Kohli, acknowledged that while there isn’t usually a concern over who takes measurements, having a female option available can make clients feel more comfortable.

Though still in its proposal phase, the UP Women’s Commission intends to approach the state government with these recommendations, urging consideration of legislation. Himani Agarwal, a commission member, emphasised that the proposed guidelines are intended to ensure women’s comfort and safety in settings where proximity could lead to unwelcome behaviour.

(With inputs from agencies)