Survey reveals women’s safety concerns, contrasting urban India with Northeast’s relative security.
The nationwide survey, which covered 12,770 women across 31 cities, recorded experiences of street harassment, workplace insecurity, and widespread underreporting of incidents. Only 22% of women said they had reported harassment cases to the authorities, and even then, action was taken in just 16% of cases.
Cities such as Ranchi, Srinagar, Kolkata, Delhi, Faridabad, Patna, and Jaipur emerged as the least safe urban centers. In contrast, several northeastern cities — including Kohima, Aizawl, Gangtok, and Itanagar — along with Bhubaneswar, were highlighted as among the safest places for women in the country.
Women have come out to share their experiences about travelling in and outside Northeast India. A few have shared experiences staying in the Northeast and travelling outside. Speaking to TSG, Marina Dai, an independent journalist based in Itanagar, shared her experience of travelling outside. “Traveling to different cities across the country is always exciting, as it allows me to witness and learn about diverse cultures. However, as a woman, especially when traveling alone, I often feel that we have less freedom to truly be ourselves; from the clothes we wear, to the way we carry ourselves, we need to be more cautious compared to men. At times, the constant staring makes me feel insecure too.”
Itanagar has featured in the list of places safe for women. However, its residents on the contrary face challenges travelling outside. “Being from the Northeast and having Mongoloid features adds another layer of struggle, as stereotypes and prejudices often come into play. I sometimes feel that being both a woman and someone with Mongoloid features presents greater challenges, particularly when traveling alone, as the judgments can be overwhelming. In comparison, I feel much safer in Itanagar. It is not only my home state capital but also a place where my community looks out for its women. This sense of belonging and solidarity gives me a feeling of security here. Still, across the country, I do feel that women still get judged whether for what they wear, how they speak, or how they carry themselves regardless of where we come from,” added Marina Dai.
Many women travelers — both Indian and international — find Northeast India to be surprisingly safe, often even more so than larger metros.
Travel promoters in the Northeast have highlighted that safety is seen as a comfort zone, especially among women travellers. “For women travelers, the Northeast is truly a paradise — safe, welcoming, and filled with warmth. But safety will always remain a big factor while planning trips. At the same time, experiences like mine show that not everything goes perfectly, and that’s okay. Those imperfect moments often turn into the most memorable ones. For me, that rainy night in Walong will always be unforgettable. It wasn’t the comfort of a cozy hotel that made the trip special, but the teamwork, patience, and strength we found in the middle of the struggle. Because sometimes, the road’s toughest moments are the ones that stay with us forever,” said Parismita Phukan.
Phukan added, “Today’s women are more independent than ever before. Women are chasing our goals, breaking stereotypes, and seeking freedom — freedom to travel, to explore, and to live life on our own terms. Unlike our mothers and grandmothers, who rarely had such opportunities, we are choosing solo trips and new adventures without hesitation. But there’s one thing every woman keeps in mind before traveling — safety.”
As the NARI 2025 findings underline, safety continues to be a decisive factor shaping women’s choices — whether in daily life or while planning journeys. The Northeast’s reputation as a safe, welcoming, and culturally rich destination has become its strongest calling card for women travelers, both Indian and international. While challenges persist outside the region, stories of resilience and solidarity within the Northeast highlight how community values, cultural warmth, and a sense of belonging can together foster an environment where women not only feel secure but also free to explore on their own terms.
