Voyeurs during Gossips but Mute Spectators during Crimes

On the 7^th February 2018, a shameful and sexually harassing incident took place in Delhi. A Delhi University student was sexually harassed by a middle-aged man in a public bus. This incident happened during bright day-light with many people on board. While the man had tactfully covered himself with a bag to avoid exposure to rest of the passengers, he was flashing and fondling his private part. The girl concern, uploaded a video online recording the disgusting behaviour of the man. Furthermore, it was reported that the police detained the girl for over six hours when she went to file a complaint.

That’s the state of social consciousness in our country.

As reported by many sources, the girl mentioned that no one came to her rescue even when she raised an alarm. She mentioned that when she questioned the man, she was told to get off if she had any problem. She felt dejected by the way police had left her waiting for hours. While women definitely have to fight for their own survival, this time there was no scope for complaints.

Daylight, public transport, no boyfriend and no instigating clothes, still she was harassed. Unbelievable that none stood against the man who allegedly nudged her and was masturbating.

Drive through the roads of Delhi and everyday one will definitely find people standing to solve road rages!

A little brushing of the cars, abuses are hurled at and people enjoy surrounding them and watching the drama. People solve these issues but have no time to stop and help a girl. Parking fight in one’s areas? The entire family and neighbours will be on the ground while the balcony lights of the rest of the houses will be switched on. Voyeurism. People love being voyeurs during drama but are mute spectators during such cases.

A blind eye is presented to such incidents.

So many incidents unfold in the Delhi Metro as well, where women speak up and confront those who stare at their bodies. Nobody speaks up for the girl giving moral support. Not men nor women. This attitude needs a change.

Delhi being the centre of such cases, people need to have some responsibility towards the society. Being selfish during such crimes is equivalent to being the molester or harasser.

Time to speak up against things that have gone way too out of control. Safety and security is a basic right and means for survival. Speak up against the wrong. Today it’s someone else’s daughter, tomorrow it can be yours.

Also Read: What’s the difference between sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment and rape?

Reshma Ganeshbabu is an intern with SheThePeople.TV