For a number of women paying guests (PG), the wings of independence are more often than not cut down by the safety concerns that come along with accommodation in these big cities.

The blinding city lights of tier-1 and tier-2 cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, unfortunately, have also started to cast a dark shadow around women’s safety, especially the ones living alone in the city that promises financial freedom and safety.

PG owner molests girl

In an incident reported from Ahmedabad’s Satellite area, a 20-year-old paying guest (PG) was allegedly flashed and molested by the PG owner. 

The woman said in her complaint that she is a law student, originally from Maharashtra and was pursuing her internship with the Gujarat high court. 

Having completed her internship on Nov 4, the complainant was about to leave for her hometown.

While packing her bags in the evening, alone in the room, the PG owner, Akash Ajmera, allegedly barged into her room.

Initially, Ajmera complained that she was not doing her dishes. Then he allegedly started asking the girl if she smokes or drinks and even asked whether she was sexually active. The girl asked him not to indulge in obscene talks. However, he did not stop there, flashed the girl and started physically molesting her.

The complainant pushed him out of the room, locking it from inside, called a male friend for help, and informed her parents. When her friend arrived, Ajmera attacked him with a rod and tried to hit her, too.

Later, she called the police and filed a complaint on Nov 6.

Inspector Ketan Vyas, Satellite police station said, “Akash Ajmera has been arrested, and an investigation has begun.”

Plight of women living in PG

Incidents concerning safety of women in these PG accommodations have been on a rise due to a number of reasons, be it with society restrictions, moral policing, lewd comments and now even cases of molestation from PG owners.

A 21-year-old paying guest living in Makarba, working for an IT company moved to Gujarat from Rajasthan as her parents felt this is a safer state to live in. She says, “My PG owner called me up late in the night and invited me to his home for a drink and smoke; when I refused, he asked me to go for a coffee outside to which I relented.” She adds, “I really feel unsafe here, but I have no other alternative.”

Women moving to the cities today face the dilemma of choosing one or the other: following a career or challenging their safety. This time around, the perpetrators are the ones who are in control of their roofs, leaving the women without any choice but to live in fear.

Not to mention the rent disparity to their male counterparts under the guise of ‘safety and better facilities’.

The cities have a habit of turning away from these issues and maintaining the ‘status quo’, leaving its young women to fight their own battles and move on from such incidents rather quickly. 

How can you be safe? Here are a few pointers:  

1. Thoroughly research PGs: online reviews, ratings, speak with earlier tenants.

2. Written agreements: insist on a written rental agreement that outlines the terms and conditions. Ensure that it clearly specifies rent, security deposit, notice periods, and any rules or regulations.

3. Verify owner’s identity: always ask for the owner’s identification and verify their credentials. 

4. Document conditions: take photographs or videos to record any existing damages to avoid disputes during the security deposit return.

5. Security deposits: Typically, the deposit should be refundable upon leaving the PG in good condition. Keep receipts. 

6. Privacy and access: Discuss and agree on the owner’s access to your room or apartment. Ensure they respect your privacy and give proper notice before entering your living space.

7. Emergency contacts: Share emergency contact numbers with family and trusted friends.  

8. Know your rights: familiarise yourself with the city’s law and order. Have contacts of nearby police stations handy. 

9. Complain promptly: If there are any violations or issues, report them immediately. Keep a record of your complaint documents.

10. Create a support system: Connect with the other tenants in the PG and establish a support network where you can share concerns and can collectively address safety concerns. 

11. Regular check-ins: Stay in regular contact with friends and family, sharing your whereabouts and schedule. 

12. Trust your instincts! 

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