Unsafe

By Shefali

Never alone,

Or in places unknown,

In a country prone to

Exploitation.

‘Safe and secure’,

A myth to allure,

the women into

Deception.

Don’t be out too late,

Be home by 8.

Restrictions,

the only means of protection.

Cry out aloud,

Light candles and shout,

And march, past the state.

The only Measures,

We’re able to take.

Buses and trains,

Daylight and in rains,

Schools and hospitals,

Even in houses of worship and restrain.

Alas, everywhere we’ve heard,

Our law is in vain.

Skirts or sarees,

Shorts or suits,

When intentions are polluted,

Your attire is moot.

But here they are,

Making statements subpar,

Questioning our freedom today.

These are the kings,

We supported yesterday.

Tasers and pepper sprays,

To keep the devils away at bay,

But when are we to see the change?

When the demons are immortal

And derange.

So, we keep our sanity,

And our courage in place.

For, the truth maybe a bitter pill to swallow

But the truth remains,

We’re unsafe.

By Shefali