I’m just a girl, and that’s enough,  

By Umesh Kumari

I cried today, and the reason’s so clear,

Because I’m also a woman, and danger can come from anywhere.

I could be Nirbhaya, I could be Abhaya too,

Their fear, their pain—it could be my truth.

The streets feel dark, even in the light,

I fear the day, I fear the night.

What if I’m next, just walking by?

What if I scream and no one replies?

I choose my clothes, not for style,

But to avoid a predator’s smile.

Worried about how I’ll be judged by someone.

Is this too revealing? Is it too tight?

Will they say it’s my fault if something’s not right?

My phone in hand, I keep looking back,

Always ready, fearing an attack.

I cross the road, I quicken my pace,

But no place feels like a truly safe space.

They say, “She shouldn’t walk outside, she should wear good clothes,” with cold blame,

As if her pain is part of some cruel game.

I feel their stares, their harsh judgement too,

The world is so heavy, I don’t know what to do.

I’m just a girl, and that’s enough,  

To face a world that can be tough.  

Her fears could be mine any day,  

In a world where safety can fade away.

I go through life with worry and dread,  

Hoping nothing bad will happen instead. 

Her pain might be my own someday,  

In a world where danger seems to stay.

Umesh Kumari is a Class 11 student of Dr BR Ambedkar School of Specialized Excellence (SoSE), Andrews Ganj, Delhi Board of Secondary Education, Delhi government.