The last few weeks have been agonising! The news of Delhi rape and killing has led to widespread protests and a general increase in awareness regarding the treatment of women in India. At a very macro level, these protests (although sometimes seemingly direction less) are important and will certainly get the ear of the lawmakers and hopefully there will be some changes. But, it is crucial to realise that punishment and retribution is not going to solve a problem whose roots lie very deep in the psyche of the Indian society. The important fallout, more than knee jerk legislative changes, would be to prolong a slow dialogue that has started questioning this (the link to The Hindu has quite a few articles on this).
Apart from waiting for laws that deter rape, a few changes from us, the individuals that make up the society is needed. This pertains to the way we react to violence in general and gender based violence in particular. From a personal point of view I feel sad that I have not regularly practised what I am going to suggest below but this is as much a blog as a note to myself!
a). When you see any kind of bullying, be it towards a fellow male or female, stand up for the person. Call 100, raise your voice or use physical force if the need be. Don't be a bystander however harmless the bullying seems to you. Such behaviour especially in the case of eve-teasing is the starting point for much worse behaviour. If someone thinks they can get away with that, it emboldens them. I have resolved to learn some martial art for self-defence seriously to combat such stupidity.
b). Women need to find creative and efficient ways to protect themselves. Here is a nice home made recipe! It has been shown time and again in the case of crime research that the way one carries oneself makes a huge difference to whether you are targeted or not. When you know that you can give it back to someone intending harm, it makes you that bit more confident and that should act as an extra deterrent.
c). Actively talk to and enlighten bigots and sexists. These could be people close to you (your family) or your friends. Be vocal in expressing angst against wrong attitudes. For silence may be taken as a sign of condoning.
Hope things get better!
