The Hindu : New Delhi News : Shaping a safer tomorrow for working women

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Tuesday, May 06, 2008
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Shaping a safer tomorrow for working women

Staff Reporter

Seminar throws new light on laws and personal behaviour norms to ensure security for women at work

Photo: Anu Pushkarna

Making a point: ”Super Cop” Kiran Bedi (left) with Air Hostess Academy director Sapna Gupta (middle) and Bollywood actor Kirron Kher (right) during the seminar on ‘Safety guidance for women in service industry’ in New Delhi on Monday.

NEW DELHI: To educate women in the service industry about various safety issues, laws and self-defence manoeuvres, the Air Hostess Academy on Monday hosted a thoughtful seminar here in the Capital. Titled “Safety guidance for women in service industry”, the seminar saw participation of several eminent women who have made a name for themselves in their fields.

Shedding light on the laws that protect working women, retired Indian Police Service officer Kiran Bedi spoke at length about various laws and regulations listed in the Constitution for issues concerning the safety of women at the work place.

Referring to various such cases from the past, Ms. Bedi said a working woman should never compromise at the cost of her safety. “In fact, they should learn the basic self-defence manoeuvres so as to be prepared for any kind of situation,” she asserted.

The retired IPS officer said it was crucial for society to recognise the importance of remedial and preventive action to end gender discrimination among women workers and treat them as equal to men.

Speaking on the occasion, Bollywood actor Kirron Kher said: “Since in the hospitality industry women workers have to interact, travel and deal with their male counterparts and customers, it is advisable to be politely assertive in uncomfortable situations. If that does not work then they should bring it to the notice of immediate authorities.”

Kirron exhorted students to not only focus on their appearance and looks but also to project the right body language. “You should develop your inner strength and stand up against incorrect things,” she added.

Air Hostess Academy founder-director Sapna Gupta said: “Women in the service industry interface with a wide variety of people, hence making them more vulnerable to harassment at work. From callous colleagues to guests they need to interact with all kind of individuals. Hence the first thing they need to learn is to be calm and composed.”

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