Many might think it is bizarre for women to demand basic public safety. Many might ask, “Why do you need a separate ladies-compartment?”, “Why are you scared under broad daylight?”
Because even under broad daylight, women are harassed, assaulted, and their privacy is violated. For example, a 23-year-old student in Kolkata was travelling on a bus when she found a man clicking pictures of her against her consent on his phone.
According to a report by TOI, the incident happened on January 1 around 3 PM. The woman claims that the 42-year-old stalker was taking her photographs on his mobile. When she confronted him, he said that he was clicking a few selfies and that she is making a fuss out of nothing.
However, when she saw the man continue to do the same, she got up and asked him for his phone so she could delete the pictures. It was then that the man pushed her and tried to escape. The woman shouted and blocked his way while dialling the police emergency number.
By that time, the bus halted at a crossing and a nearby police van took notice of the commotion that was happening inside the vehicle. The cops intervened, nabbed the stalker, and seized his phone. The device has now been sent for forensic examination.
“Despite being browbeaten, the woman did not think twice before challenging the man even as she sought police help,” said a senior divisional officer.
Kudos to the woman for her presence of mind and her courage! May more women stand up to such harassment.