Male Tailors Will Not Take Measurements of Female Customers, UP Women’s Commission Enforces New Safety Guidelines Post-Kanpur Incident

Following the tragic murder of Ekta Gupta in Kanpur, the Uttar Pradesh Women’s Commission has introduced stringent new safety guidelines. In a bid to enhance security and ensure a safer environment for women, male tailors will no longer be permitted to take measurements of female customers.

Complaints received by the Commission reveal that some male tailors engage in inappropriate behavior while measuring female clients. To address this issue, the Commission has mandated that only female tailors should perform measurements for female customers. This rule aims to eliminate uncomfortable situations for women and promote a respectful environment in tailoring boutiques.

The Commission said gyms and yoga centers must now employ women trainers for female clients. Additionally, CCTV monitoring will be mandatory in specific establishments.

According to the Commission,  complaints have surfaced regarding inappropriate behavior in gyms and parlors, with female clients or their families often unwilling to report incidents out of fear or embarrassment. Babita Chauhan, the Chairperson of the UP Women’s Commission, said that incidents like Ekta Gupta’s murder are not isolated, with some cases even leading to family disputes and divorces. The Women’s Commission believes having female trainers will not only safeguard women but also create new employment opportunities for them.

Other Measures by the Women’s Commission

Only Female Staff for Women’s Services: The Women’s Commission has mandated that only female employees should handle women-centric services. Makeup and dressing for women in salons and parlors should be carried out by female staff only. 

Stores specializing in women’s clothing are also encouraged to hire women employees to attend to female customers. To support these policies, CCTV systems will be installed to ensure proper oversight.

Guidelines for Coaching Centers: Coaching centers, where young girls often study, must implement CCTV monitoring to enhance security. The Commission aims to create a safe educational environment for female students and prevent any inappropriate incidents.

Male Beauticians in Parlors: A rising trend where men perform makeup services for women in beauty parlors has also raised concerns. The Commission questioned the necessity of male beauticians in a female-oriented service industry. 

Police Verification for Male Employees:  In establishments where men continue to work, such as gyms, parlors, and boutiques, police verification will be mandatory.

Safety Provisions in Schools and School Buses: Recognizing the importance of security in educational settings, the Commission has recommended that all schools in the state conduct thorough background checks on their employees. 

Context of the Kanpur Incident: The Ekta Gupta Case

The murder of Ekta Gupta, wife of businessman Rahul Gupta, has sent shockwaves through the community. Ekta was abducted by her gym trainer, Vimal Soni, four months prior. In a chilling turn of events, her body was found buried on the high-security premises of the District Magistrate’s residence. 

Inspired by the plot of Ajay Devgn's film Drishyam, Soni buried her body in an attempt to evade detection. Following his arrest on October 26, Soni admitted to killing Ekta on June 24. This case has sparked widespread concern and highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety measures for women in public spaces.