Delhi CM announces 1 lakh streetlights, WhatsApp grievance channel for college safety

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday, 12 October 2026, met female student representatives from colleges across the capital and promised priority action on women’s safety, campus security and public transport. Open The Magazine reports that Gupta announced work to install approximately one lakh smart streetlights across Delhi, linked to the Integrated Command and Control Centre, under an Annual Maintenance Contract system that requires the agency to fix any defunct light within a defined timeframe.

Kalinga TV adds that Gupta directed officials to keep an active WhatsApp group connecting student representatives with administrative and police personnel for time-bound grievance redressal, and advised students to use emergency helpline 112. Students from eight colleges, including Lady Shri Ram College and Gargi College, submitted proposals for safety audits, more women police personnel, regular patrolling, better DTC and University Special bus connectivity, regulated e-rickshaws and security around paying guest accommodation. Both sources quote Gupta saying, ‘Our daughters must have a fear-free environment where they can realise their aspirations and contribute fully to society.’