No men allowed: Women to take over Thiruvananthapuram streets at 'Freedom at Midnight'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Department of Women and Child Development will organise a women-only public event in the city on the night of August 14, creating a dedicated public space exclusively for women.

The stretch of road from Overbridge to PMG in Thiruvananthapuram will be open only to women from 10 pm to 1 am. Traffic will be completely restricted during this period, and men will not be allowed to enter the venue.

The initiative aims to encourage women to reclaim public spaces by giving them the freedom to walk, dance, play, sing, shop and dine in the city late at night. The department describes the programme as a symbolic "declaration of freedom at midnight" by women and for women.

The entire event, including security arrangements, crowd management and the operation of stalls, will be handled by women. There will be no formal inauguration or speeches, and participants will not be required to follow any dress code or carry invitations.

Musicians, dancers, poets, comedians, theatre groups and other performers can register in advance to present cultural programmes. Women entrepreneurs wishing to set up stalls must also register.

For registrations and enquiries, contact 7907112181 or email dirwcdkerala@gmail.com.