Change the attitude
This refers to the article "Hands off" by Nighat Gandhi (Magazine, September 11). This article is not just for women, in fact men should learn from this article. Our male dominated society is such that girls/women are often seen as a way of bringing respect or disrespect to the family. This is the reason for the silence. Actually, we are equally responsible since we blame a rape victim for her plight. Apart from family support, society should also support the victim. The attitude of the police and the judiciary should also change.
Yash Chandra,
New Delhi
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With reference to your thought provoking article "Hands Off", crime against women is the result of society's myopic attitude towards women-related issues. Since the culprits are aware of the existing loopholes in our legal set up, it gives them the freedom to exploit and torture women. Greater social awareness, honest and impartial implementation of laws meant to prevent atrocities would certainly help. Also there is a need to portray women in a better light on the silver screen. The projection of a distorted image places women in an awkward position.
Arvind Pandey,
Allahabad
In the article "Hands off", Nighat Gandhi makes an ardent plea to the women to react strongly to all sorts of harassment, especially rape. Silence on the woman's part emboldens the culprit. The provocation from dressing is only a convenient excuse for misbehaving with women. The situation will change only if women themselves decide to fight injustice and insults against all odds. Empowered women have to safeguard the interests of women who have been wronged. Mita Kapur in her article "Trivialising the aggressor" questions the legitimacy of eve teasing. The attitude of the authorities and society at large is deplorable.
N.K.Vijayan,
Kizhakkambalam
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