[Reader-list] Soumya murder: Sheila in dock over ‘adventurous’ remark

[Aditya Raj Kaul]

Soumya murder: Sheila in dock over 'adventurous' remarkAgencies *New Delhi,
October 2:* Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Thursday came under
attack from politicos and women activists for her comments on the murder of
journalist Soumya Vishwanathan that 'one should not be adventurous.'

Terming Dikshit's observation as unwarranted, women activists have said the
Chief Minister should instead ensure safety of citizens, particularly those
working late hours.

"It is shocking to hear such a statement from the person who has a
'women-friendly image.' The murder of the girl in the late hours speaks
volumes of the safety concerns of women," activist Ranjana Kumari said.

Referring to Dikshit's comment made soon after the murder of Soumya, Ranjana
Kumari questioned the extent of safety of a person on such desolate roads
where there is no police presence.

"If not the State then on whom will the people depend for their safety," she
said.

The Opposition BJP too lashed out at Dikshit saying the 'unwarranted' quotes
by her were a manifestation of her insensitivity to the security of Delhi's
citizens.

"It proves her insensitivity towards the security of the people living in
Delhi. Instead of airing such unwarranted statements she should rather
concentrate on improving the security scenario in the capital."

"Being a lady herself one expected her to be a bit more sober in commenting
on the killing of a young working woman," party leader Vijay Kumar Malhotra
said.

"India is a free country and everybody is free to do whatever they want to
do. If Soumya was an adventurous girl, it was her choice," Jai Panda, a
Rajya Sabha member and Biju Janta Dal leader said.