Cases of security breaches in women’s hostels in the state have raised concerns about security arrangements at such facilities, which are used by thousands of women who are away from home for work or studies.
While a man allegedly sexually assaulted a female technician in a hostel at Kazhakoottam in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, a youth was arrested in Kannur for allegedly trespassing into a women’s hostel at Thavakara in Kannur the next day.
Infopark Kochi employees have pointed out security lapses in several hostels and their premises, though they say no serious threats have been reported in the recent past.
“There are hostels that prioritize security measures. They are located in safe areas and have facilities including CCTV cameras. But then there are several hostels set up haphazardly in less populated areas. Often women who cannot afford premium hostels have to settle for such facilities where they feel less safe,” said Sanjana Keshavadas, an employee of a multinational company in Infopark.
Deepa KR, vice-president, Kochi, of Prathidhwani, an IT employee forum, echoed these concerns. “Recently we have not faced any major problem from the hostels but it is a fact that women still do not have the freedom to walk alone to their residence at night after working hours. Lack of bad light on the route from Inforpark to Kakkanad, especially in Infopark Phase 2, remains a major problem. Of course things have improved recently but still a lot needs to be done,” said Ms. Deepa.
Radhamani Pillai, chairman of the Thrikkakara municipality, admitted that a number of hostels had been set up in the area without the necessary permits. “We conduct inspections and detect facilities operating without licenses,” she said.
Government sector hostels, meanwhile, have CCTVs installed and appoint wardens. In Kochi, the Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation runs hostels with facilities at Kakkanad and Kadavanthra. The Public Works Department also has a women’s labor hostel at Kakkanad which has a warden and a punching system for the residents.
“The local authorities who are the licensing authority should not provide any hostel functions without permission. They have to carry out inspections and take required measures against unauthorized establishments. Whenever a security issue is reported, we deal with it,” Jeeja. S., District Officer for the Protection of Women, Department of Women and Children Development.
After the Kazhakoottam incident, the Thiruvananthapuram police have reportedly suggested that security measures like CCTV cameras and security guards be provided in women’s hostels.
Published – 21 Oct 2025 21:07 IST
