Safe Haven

I long for the safe haven maa

in those fiery moments

when I am objectified,

glared and lusted upon

I long for the safe haven maa

when in every walk of my life

I am judged, shamed and blamed,

eying me to be their prey

I long for the safe haven maa

when they don't see my age

all they see is this flesh

not my feelings and emotions

I long for the safe haven maa

from those hurts and bruises

which are rendered upon ages

subject to violence

I long for the safe haven maa

why do I not come with

statutory warnings

but only customary usage

I long for the safe haven maa

where my head is held high

and mind free,

no objections and constraints

I long for the safe haven maa

from the odd laws of equality

where the hurt is victimized

and the abuser is free

I long for the safe haven maa

from being another Nirbhaya or Disha

where my nights are as free as yours

the place free like yours

I long for the safe haven maa

take me back to those dark walls

keep me in those confines

safe, secure, and free ...

ISDS