The Mumbai Police have responded to actress Malavika Mohanan's recent account of a disturbing experience on a local train during her college days, reaffirming their commitment to the safety of women in the city. Mohanan's recollection of the incident, where a stranger made an inappropriate advance towards her and her friends, has sparked a wider conversation about the perception and reality of women's safety in public spaces in Mumbai.
In a statement released on Saturday, June 14, 2025, via social media platform X, the Mumbai Police addressed Mohanan directly, acknowledging the impact such experiences can have. "Ms. @MalavikaM_ We came across an article in an online portal of a newspaper, which you shared your experience and raised concern over women safety in the city. We can imagine that experiences like these can be startling and leave a long term impact," the police wrote. They further urged anyone facing similar situations to reach out to them immediately via helplines 112 or 100, promising prompt support. "Thus we must reiterate that no matter what time of the day or place in the city, please reach out to us at 112/100 and we will provide support as soon as can be. Non reporting emboldens the offender (sic)."
The police emphasized their dedication to maintaining and improving the safety and security for women in Mumbai. "Mumbai city has always been safe for women and we will leave no stone unturned to make it better. Once reported, the offender will be suitably & lawfully dealt with." They also encouraged Mohanan to use her platform to spread awareness and encourage reporting of such incidents, stating, "Please use your good standing to spread the word. It may help better in solving such issues, which are aberrations and those can't be generalised (sic)."
Mohanan's account, shared in an interview, detailed an incident where she and two friends were traveling in a first-class local train compartment around 9:30 pm. A man approached the window grill where they were sitting and made a lewd remark. Mohanan expressed that while she feels safe now due to having a personal car and driver, her perception was different during her college days when she relied on public transportation. She highlighted that many women who use public transport have similar stories of harassment and eve-teasing.
The Mumbai Police's response underscores the importance of reporting such incidents and their commitment to ensuring that the city remains a safe place for women. It also highlights the ongoing debate about women's safety in public spaces and the measures needed to address the issue comprehensively. The police urged that reporting such incidents can help in suitably and lawfully dealing with offenders.
