The term ‘eve teasing’ is an Indian origin. “Eve” the term actually signifies that eves (women) tempt or provoke males for vulgar comments and behaviors. Ironically, that also means women cause the problem and are also a victim to it. But that is almost like blaming the victims for their sufferings. It also depicts an element of male chauvinism.
It is prevalent almost everywhere, but in India, especially in the cities; you can’t be a woman and not have been its victim at some point in your life. Wherever you go in India, be it the mall, the bus stand, the railway station, the theatre, colleges, schools, if you are a woman you can’t escape it. It does not ends here, even walking freely on the road is often uncomfortable.
The worst part is the public does not react. In fact even the police is reluctant to register the complaint! It is no big secret that the police don’t take eve-teasing incidents seriously. Eve-teasing is so common that the police are terrified of the flood of complaints they might receive if they did register the complaints!
Eve teasing must be stopped. Women deserve respect. Men and women are equal. Our lack of consciousness has lead to a loss of many lives. But we don’t want any more lives to say good bye to this world. Women have the right to live freely in the world. Independence is their birth right. They have the right to lead their lives as males. On the other hand, the family and society of the victims or teased girls should have the courage and resolve to support them. Most often, they are misunderstood by their family whenever they inform the family members about teasing. The family and society should support them mentally. So as the govt. must take things seriously. The country wants both of them to be active in such issues.
Women, should empower ourselves to fight back. Same story everyday . Women should carry pins, chilli powder, pen-knives, swiss knives and even daggers to protect themselves. Self-defense classes have mushroomed across metropolitan cities that teach martial arts and karate etc. Joining those classes will not be a bad idea. If one feels too shy and reserved to defend yourself and keep the suffering to yourself, its time to get up and raise your voice. Although, women can always pretend to ignore all the lewd comments but things would be much better if one can just look straight into the eyes of the offender and speak up.
