What do chandigarh’s women voters want

Chandigarh: Women of Chandigarh, who comprise 48.2% of the city’s total voters, are shifting the spotlight on their concerns and issues that demand attention.
Out of around 6.53 lakh voters, about 3.15 lakh are women and 3.38 lakh are men.






In Chandigarh, the largest number of women voters are in the age groups of 30-39 (79,762), followed by 40-49 (68,802), and 20-29 (59,109), showing a vibrant mix of generations at the polling booths.
TOI
reached out to women of various age groups across the city to gather their perspectives on what should be prioritised for women in Chandigarh.
‘We need accessible, affordable childcare’
Professor Renu Vig, 60, who is the vice-chancellor of Panjab University, said, “Enhanced street lighting, particularly in public areas like footpaths and transit stops, is imperative. Additionally, accessible and affordable childcare facilities play a pivotal role in enabling women to pursue their careers and education effectively. We need excellent childcare facilities closer to workplace of women so that they can focus on their professional growth.”
‘Security is a pressing concern; sensitisation crucial to report cases’
Namita Gupta, 45, a human rights professor, said, “Security remains a pressing concern not just for me, but everyone. I’ve noticed many students reside in the southern part of the city due to abundance of PG accommodations there. Incidents of eve teasing from cars persist. Let’s call it what it is, street harassment, but seriously, not enough buzz about it! Sensitisation efforts are crucial for more reporting on such cases.”
‘Conversation on
menstrual leaves’
Gurmehar Kaur, 27, said, “In these elections, conversation about the idea of implementing paid menstrual leaves could be a significant step towards gender equality in workplaces and schools. Panjab University just now did and others must also take inspiration.”
For Adarsh Kohli, 69, women taxi drivers, a special day for women travellers, and special women clinics in hospitals must be promoted.
‘Free transportation for underprivileged working women must be provided’
Talking about the point of view of women in villages or colonies, Reema, 31, said, “There are numerous govt schemes for pregnant women, and proper documentation is required to avail their benefits. Therefore, there is a need for serious on-the-ground efforts regarding these schemes, and the elected representatives should actively engage with them. Additionally, free transportation for underprivileged working women in the colonies must be provided.”
‘Slash the prices of
daily amenities’
Paramjit Kaur, 52, a home maker from Mauli Jagran said, “If you consider women and housewives like me, gas cylinders must be provided at cheaper rates and prices of vegetables must also be slashed.”