Most women in Delhi claim to have become extra cautious, more so when they hear a car coming up behind them. And spotting cars with leering men who automatically slow down when they see a woman walking alone on the road, is nothing new.

Said Keya Manchandani, a student: ‘‘There should be more patrolling in desolate areas after dark. After the Dhaulan Kuan incident, it’s a shock that another crime of the same type has been allowed to happen.’’

A majority of women, however, feel that it’s up to the woman most of the times to protect themselves. Said Supriya Sodhi, an advertising professional: ‘‘I always carry pepper spray with me, so I don’t feel too unsafe. The police can’t be everywhere at the same time, so I think it’s up to the girl to be aware and summon help whenever she suspects something wrong.’’

Self-defence classes are once again a top priority for women. Remarked Akshita Jhakhar, a law student: ‘‘Whenever an incident like this happens, people start talking about self-defence and how one can protect themselves. But I feel most incidents happen when we least expect it. Who would have thought another rape like the Dhaulan Kuan incident, would happen after all the anger and outbursts over it.’’

Adds Niharika Tandon, a call centre executive,‘‘We can’t rely on police all the time. I’m extra wary whenever I see a car moving slowly alongside me. You can’t trust anybody.’’

Most women complain, rashly driven cars with loud music are an everyday nuisance seen on Delhi roads.

Said DU student Riya Shah: ‘‘Till some time ago, I thought guys driving such cars were harmless and were just fooling around. But now I’m not too sure. With one rape after the other, mostly in cars, I think anything can happen if you let your guard down.’’

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