Indian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Studies (IJMRS)

Gender Dynamics in Urban Slums: A Case Study of Women’s Work and Safety in Delhi

This paper conducts an analysis of gendered aspects of work and safety within slums of Delhi city paying attention to the field of unequal employment experiences of women in an informal labor market and the risk factors to their physical and psychological health. Drawing on qualitative research conducted in select slum settlements, the paper examines the socio-cultural and spatial constraints that shape women's employment opportunities, mobility, and daily experiences. The results show that women are involved in mostly low-paid, informal jobs which are insecure most of the time due to domestic duties and male-dominated culture. Safety emerges as a critical factor limiting women's access to public spaces and economic participation, with frequent incidents of harassment, inadequate infrastructure, and weak institutional support. The paper has made it clear that there are combinations of marginalization between gender, caste, class, and migration status that blight the women and limit their agency. It concludes with policy recommendations for enhancing women's safety, improving access to dignified work, and promoting inclusive urban development. This study forms part of the wider debate of gender issues, urban poverty and spatial justice in fast-urbanizing domains.