Indian Women Riders Face Harassment, Intimidation on Roads

As India's women riders take to the roads in increasing numbers, they are facing a harsh reality - harassment and intimidation from male bikers. The incidents have left many feeling vulnerable and fearful for their safety.

Shivani Chauhan, a 25-year-old biker from Gurugram, was hit by a car on Sunday, leaving her shaken. "I am thankful to God. I could have died" she said in an interview with The Indian Express.

Her experience is not isolated, as two recent incidents in Raipur and another in Gurugram have highlighted the issue.

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According to Abida Rana, a 22-year-old International English Language Testing System trainer from Bhopal, she was chased by a car after a minor accident on August 2. "The driver took one look at me and challenged me to go past his car," she said.

The incidents have sparked concerns among women riders, who are now taking extra precautions to ensure their safety. Tanisha Arora, an influencer and biker, said that she has a contingency plan in place for dealing with harassment on the road.

I can't overpower a man, she said. I keep a small knife and pepper spray, especially on long rides. Her experience is not unique, as many women riders are facing similar challenges.

Candida Louis, who holds the record for being the first Indian woman to ride solo on a 400 CC motorcycle from India to Australia through 10 nations, said that she faces challenges in certain cities. noting that four years ago, I stopped at a red light when a cab suddenly came and rammed my bike she recalled.

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The incidents have led to calls for increased safety measures on the roads. Saloni Tyagi, a single mother from Delhi, said that she now travels with a friend who rides behind her when she is out.

When men see a woman driving, they get into race mode, she said. "This is especially true for men in Gurugram." The incidents have highlighted the need for more awareness and education on road safety.