The alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old at Aastha Kunj Park near Kalkaji Mandir has triggered renewed questions over public safety and security arrangements in one of south-east Delhi’s large green spaces.

According to police, three men allegedly posed as policemen before separating the teenager from her male friend and assaulting her inside the park. The accused were identified as Asif, Hemant Singh and Mukesh, with police arresting all three following the incident.

The case has also brought long-standing concerns raised by local residents back into focus. Poor lighting, open stretches along the boundary, multiple access points and limited security have been cited as problems, particularly after sunset.

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA), which manages the park, is now reviewing its security arrangements. The incident has raised questions about whether existing measures are sufficient to protect visitors in a sprawling public space.

The political and civic focus is now shifting towards accountability, park infrastructure and women’s safety in Delhi. The Delhi Lieutenant-Governor has also directed a safety audit of parks across the capital, covering lighting, security, cleanliness and patrolling.

For residents, the issue extends beyond the immediate criminal investigation. They say repeated concerns about basic safety infrastructure need to be addressed before another incident occurs.