Incidents of Indian people, particularly us Gujaratis, being robbed in their own homes are on the rise. Robbers have formed the impression that Indians have gold jewellery and other valuables in their homes and that they are too weak to defend themselves. They therefore target Indian homes to take advantage of this. The burglars, who are strong people of Eastern European or west Indian descent, enter Indian homes at night even when the occupants are asleep and beat them up black and blue to the extent that they bleed profusely and need hospital treatment after the event.
Imagine yourself being woken up at night to be confronted by a man weilding a knife and threatening to harm you. It must be very frightening experience. People who are victims would probably live the rest of their lives on a knife edge, being jittery and afraid to go to bed at night and so stay awake whole night. They will be scarred for life. Investing in strong mortice locks on doors and windows and fitting burglar alarms could deter these intruders. Also, installing timers on some lights which come on and off will make people think that you are at home and awake.This could go someway in providing safety. Panic buttons at the bedside which make the alarm go off could also be useful.
Dinesh Sheth
Newbury Park, Ilford
