Email Campaign write to the state Home Minister and Ministry of Home Affairs at the centre for more details go here
On March 7 a rally is being organised to meet the DG-IGP and submit a petition. More details as they emerge.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
One more young girl was beaten up for wearing western attire
This was on Cunningham road yesterday. That stretch of the road could not possibly be more crowded at 6 and still no one helped the girl. The curious behaviour of the bystander continues.
The other interesting thing that's happening today is the sms doing the rounds asking women to be careful of their "dress code" due to these attacks. These are messages forwarded by "well meaning" women to warn their friends. Well no one's going to help and one cannot learn martial arts in a day so lets be safe seems to be the thinking. I cannot ask these women not to behave so. I have no solution for them or myself.
This prejudice against jeans i find it very funny at this point. I have been wearing jeans since I was 17 that's practically a decade and a half ago. My mother and I went to sale and Safina Plaza and bought my very first branded jeans. I had worn trousers before that but jeans this was the first. I didn't have to fight anyone for it. My mother was as enthu as me about it. My dad didn't think twice about it. It was just another outfit they were buying for their daughter. And they are as "Indian culure" oriented as one can get. Wearing them hasn't come in the way of being an Indian in anyway so far. They never for once thought this would draw more "attention" to me because they knew it wasn't true. If anything by my experience and theirs my worst nightmare happened when I was wearing a saree.
I have celebrated almost all festivals since then. I have cooked and cleaned my house, got married and now even going to have a baby. I know that's a very shallow description on the culture but that isn't mine it is what everyone tells me Indian culture is, so am just going along with that for now. But wearing jeans is still a big cultural change for many women even in a city like Bangalore even today. It is a big change. Some have to fight for it for some it is natural. But at the end of the day it is comfortable outfit. Of course right now it is taking on almost political role.
A lot of the people (needless to say mostly men and shockingly some women too) are finding this whole "hullabaloo" about the freedom to wear western clothes by women extremley silly and even irresponsible. We have bigger issues to worry about like falling GDP and the farmer suicides in vidarbha they say. My question is none of these men who are leaving scathing comments on blogs or the ones attacking the women are wearing dhoties and being shirtless are they? Nor are they using bullock carts to go after these women. Strange. Since when is trousers, tshirts and SUVs for men part of indian culture?
Being harassed on the streets is not new to any indian woman. At some point of time every one of us have been through the humiliation of "eve teasing." Some took it quitely, others rebelled and a few others killed themselves over it. This recent incident of mangalore pub attack or the attacks on the women in Bangalore are just the last straw we can take. And for once it looks like we might not be alone. That we might have a chance at being safe in our own bloody country without looking over our shoulders all the time or having to carry pepper spray or pocket knives and hope to hell that we don't have to use it. How are we women the lesser citizens of this country?
Female foeticide, infanticide, dowry, rape, molestation, sexual harrasment and now getting beaten up for wearing jeans. You are basically telling me I have no rights to live. I am not going to take that lying down. I have worked my ass off and fought a lot of battles to be who I am today and no one but me worked hard to buy those friggin branded jeans and I am keeping them. You can take a walk.
The other interesting thing that's happening today is the sms doing the rounds asking women to be careful of their "dress code" due to these attacks. These are messages forwarded by "well meaning" women to warn their friends. Well no one's going to help and one cannot learn martial arts in a day so lets be safe seems to be the thinking. I cannot ask these women not to behave so. I have no solution for them or myself.
This prejudice against jeans i find it very funny at this point. I have been wearing jeans since I was 17 that's practically a decade and a half ago. My mother and I went to sale and Safina Plaza and bought my very first branded jeans. I had worn trousers before that but jeans this was the first. I didn't have to fight anyone for it. My mother was as enthu as me about it. My dad didn't think twice about it. It was just another outfit they were buying for their daughter. And they are as "Indian culure" oriented as one can get. Wearing them hasn't come in the way of being an Indian in anyway so far. They never for once thought this would draw more "attention" to me because they knew it wasn't true. If anything by my experience and theirs my worst nightmare happened when I was wearing a saree.
I have celebrated almost all festivals since then. I have cooked and cleaned my house, got married and now even going to have a baby. I know that's a very shallow description on the culture but that isn't mine it is what everyone tells me Indian culture is, so am just going along with that for now. But wearing jeans is still a big cultural change for many women even in a city like Bangalore even today. It is a big change. Some have to fight for it for some it is natural. But at the end of the day it is comfortable outfit. Of course right now it is taking on almost political role.
A lot of the people (needless to say mostly men and shockingly some women too) are finding this whole "hullabaloo" about the freedom to wear western clothes by women extremley silly and even irresponsible. We have bigger issues to worry about like falling GDP and the farmer suicides in vidarbha they say. My question is none of these men who are leaving scathing comments on blogs or the ones attacking the women are wearing dhoties and being shirtless are they? Nor are they using bullock carts to go after these women. Strange. Since when is trousers, tshirts and SUVs for men part of indian culture?
Being harassed on the streets is not new to any indian woman. At some point of time every one of us have been through the humiliation of "eve teasing." Some took it quitely, others rebelled and a few others killed themselves over it. This recent incident of mangalore pub attack or the attacks on the women in Bangalore are just the last straw we can take. And for once it looks like we might not be alone. That we might have a chance at being safe in our own bloody country without looking over our shoulders all the time or having to carry pepper spray or pocket knives and hope to hell that we don't have to use it. How are we women the lesser citizens of this country?
Female foeticide, infanticide, dowry, rape, molestation, sexual harrasment and now getting beaten up for wearing jeans. You are basically telling me I have no rights to live. I am not going to take that lying down. I have worked my ass off and fought a lot of battles to be who I am today and no one but me worked hard to buy those friggin branded jeans and I am keeping them. You can take a walk.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
They are at it again
This time for wearing "western attire" I'd like to know what their agenda is. Create panic? Gain political mileage? Just plain frustration? And how come no onlookers came to help? Well I never expect them to because it is more fun watching someone else in trouble right? It isn't you or it isn't someone you know so it is technically not your problem right?
But beating up women in broad day light? Read the report here
I am seriously looking for another city to move in...or may be a planet might be a better solution. But till then what can one do?
But beating up women in broad day light? Read the report here
I am seriously looking for another city to move in...or may be a planet might be a better solution. But till then what can one do?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Journalism...
I have often wondered about it since my time as a journalism student.
"Should we as journalists just watch and record what is happening? When your duty as a citizen calls upon you to act, you must set aside your supposed “impartiality”, if indeed there is such a thing, and intervene, Says KALPANA SHARMA"
For more go to The Hoot
On a different note Arnab Goswami of Times now and Ajay Kumar of Aajtak gave TV Journalists' perspective at a FICCI meet about TRPs influencing channels and other issues. Very interesting read. The transcript is available here at the hoot.
"Should we as journalists just watch and record what is happening? When your duty as a citizen calls upon you to act, you must set aside your supposed “impartiality”, if indeed there is such a thing, and intervene, Says KALPANA SHARMA"
For more go to The Hoot
On a different note Arnab Goswami of Times now and Ajay Kumar of Aajtak gave TV Journalists' perspective at a FICCI meet about TRPs influencing channels and other issues. Very interesting read. The transcript is available here at the hoot.
Friday, February 20, 2009
diez articulos o menos
Ten items or less :) have you seen that movie? I love Morgan Freeman and except in the weird movie Wanted...I have loved him in everything else.
And in "Ten items or less" he's absolutely adorable. It is a lovely, warm film.
Inspired by that film I am gonna make my list of 10 items or less that I love the most in my life. In no particular order.
1) My freedom
2) Hugging V and laughing with him
3) Those rare hear to heart conversations with Amma.
4) Chat sessions with VM
5) Long conversations with my girl friends about absolutely everything under the sun
6) Sea, seashore, seashells, sea breeze just everything about the sea
7) My bike
8) Music - all kinds
9) Laughter, especially that of little children
10) Icecream
11) Walking
I know the rule is ten items or less...but what's the big deal :)
Please feel free to make your list...it is fun :D
And in "Ten items or less" he's absolutely adorable. It is a lovely, warm film.
Inspired by that film I am gonna make my list of 10 items or less that I love the most in my life. In no particular order.
1) My freedom
2) Hugging V and laughing with him
3) Those rare hear to heart conversations with Amma.
4) Chat sessions with VM
5) Long conversations with my girl friends about absolutely everything under the sun
6) Sea, seashore, seashells, sea breeze just everything about the sea
7) My bike
8) Music - all kinds
9) Laughter, especially that of little children
10) Icecream
11) Walking
I know the rule is ten items or less...but what's the big deal :)
Please feel free to make your list...it is fun :D
Friday, February 13, 2009
My sentiments exactly!
Here's a Bangalore Mirror article on this whole V-day drama. I couldn't have agreed with her more!
Ammu Joseph starts are article with "I never thought I would find myself sticking up for Valentine’s Day..." Exactly what I have been feeling since the whole issue flared up. To read the entire article go here.
Although I do wonder what media will report about post V-day...
Ammu Joseph starts are article with "I never thought I would find myself sticking up for Valentine’s Day..." Exactly what I have been feeling since the whole issue flared up. To read the entire article go here.
Although I do wonder what media will report about post V-day...
Thursday, February 12, 2009
This and that
I couldn't find pink chaddies (I like to think that this is due to the overwhelming demand) in my local shops. So I am sending out bad thoughts in the general direction of all those who think this is a lost cause or rather misplaced righteousness we are fighting for.
*****
I am impressed at the mileage the e-activism can garner, whether it will serve the purpose or not, we will have wait and see (ha ha that's a classic sign off line reporters use on tv...I never could say it on air)
*****
Maternity clothes are way too expensive. Most of them are not worth it. They are just milking (err pun unintended) the opportunity.
*****
Amma can't stop laughing at the thought of birthing classes. She thinks it is hilarious. Well what can I say?
*****
Why do planning holidays become such a tedium once you are grown up? I miss the days when one just got up in the morning, called a few friends, gathered them and took off trekking. One cannot not be worried about travel and acco I understand but the whole process of letting the whole world know we are taking off and explaining that one is going on a holiday and that holidays are normal is something I don't enjoy. It is a kill joy at times I tell you.
*****
There should really be a pill to cure "mood swings" especially those that don't occur due PMS or pregnancy hormones. It is most painful to be around such people.
*****
After interacting with Whizkid for almost a year, I finally met her. It was a great, we had a lot in common including Amitabh Bacchan. I am glad the effort I put in JF is paying off in more than one way :) And oh she gave me these lovely read leaves from Coorg and I am loving the idea of gifting such things to people.
*****
I have to write down my thoughts on the school I went to because suddenly they have woken up to the alumni and want to do a souvenir. And my instructions read "don't write with a typical critical eye of a journalist" Hmmm :)
*****
I am impressed at the mileage the e-activism can garner, whether it will serve the purpose or not, we will have wait and see (ha ha that's a classic sign off line reporters use on tv...I never could say it on air)
*****
Maternity clothes are way too expensive. Most of them are not worth it. They are just milking (err pun unintended) the opportunity.
*****
Amma can't stop laughing at the thought of birthing classes. She thinks it is hilarious. Well what can I say?
*****
Why do planning holidays become such a tedium once you are grown up? I miss the days when one just got up in the morning, called a few friends, gathered them and took off trekking. One cannot not be worried about travel and acco I understand but the whole process of letting the whole world know we are taking off and explaining that one is going on a holiday and that holidays are normal is something I don't enjoy. It is a kill joy at times I tell you.
*****
There should really be a pill to cure "mood swings" especially those that don't occur due PMS or pregnancy hormones. It is most painful to be around such people.
*****
After interacting with Whizkid for almost a year, I finally met her. It was a great, we had a lot in common including Amitabh Bacchan. I am glad the effort I put in JF is paying off in more than one way :) And oh she gave me these lovely read leaves from Coorg and I am loving the idea of gifting such things to people.
*****
I have to write down my thoughts on the school I went to because suddenly they have woken up to the alumni and want to do a souvenir. And my instructions read "don't write with a typical critical eye of a journalist" Hmmm :)
Monday, February 09, 2009
Protesting in the cyber world
This whole M'lore pub story put me great distress. I felt very helpless and cornered. I can do very little than to protect myself if anything like that happens right? What else can one do? Well in this e-era, help is just a click away.
Look at this http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=50104245901&ref=nf
I don't know if any of the people who created the ruckus read these things or care for it. But I guess it makes one feel better. It is the easy way out isn't it? But till I figure out a concrete way, this should do.
And here's a slightly more concrete action one can take. Join the pinkchaddi campaign. Yes you read it right. Go here for more details. Very innovative. Will it work? I don't know. But one should keep trying isn't it?
Look at this http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=50104245901&ref=nf
I don't know if any of the people who created the ruckus read these things or care for it. But I guess it makes one feel better. It is the easy way out isn't it? But till I figure out a concrete way, this should do.
And here's a slightly more concrete action one can take. Join the pinkchaddi campaign. Yes you read it right. Go here for more details. Very innovative. Will it work? I don't know. But one should keep trying isn't it?
I want security, not just on valentines' day!
Alright now! I have had enough! Now we have the police commissioner Mr Bidari promising that people who want to celebrate valentine's day will be provided full security!
Really? security to celebrate valentine's day? What about my right to step out of my house, travel in the bus to wherever and come back without being whistled at, grabbed at and generally made to feel miserable at being a woman for all these years and future? Will you be as explicit in your promise? I agree the media is taking you to the guillotine with it. But you caved in... like this?
Then there is Mr Agni Sridhar with his 30,000 volunteers to protect the couples on valentine's day. I'd have been happier if he continues his offer and help protect women at all times from being molested, harassed, raped. What a wonderful idea that you can reach any one of those 30,000 fellow citizens at the time of distress. But this one day in a year vigilance and that too valentine's day?
Have they missed the point here? Or have I missed the point here?
Really? security to celebrate valentine's day? What about my right to step out of my house, travel in the bus to wherever and come back without being whistled at, grabbed at and generally made to feel miserable at being a woman for all these years and future? Will you be as explicit in your promise? I agree the media is taking you to the guillotine with it. But you caved in... like this?
Then there is Mr Agni Sridhar with his 30,000 volunteers to protect the couples on valentine's day. I'd have been happier if he continues his offer and help protect women at all times from being molested, harassed, raped. What a wonderful idea that you can reach any one of those 30,000 fellow citizens at the time of distress. But this one day in a year vigilance and that too valentine's day?
Have they missed the point here? Or have I missed the point here?
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Imposition
Back then one only wrote "I will not talk in the class" or "I will complete my maths classwork on time." I hated them then (primary school was ages ago eh!) But over the past week or so I have this immense need to remind myself of a few things constantly. I am scared out of my wits with all the infringement of fundamental rights and safety in the name of religion. I shudder at the thought of living in the stone ages, just cooking, cleaning and reproducing...which is what we are expected to do looks like. And hence the need to remind myself that all is not lost. What better way to do it than the age old method...reiteration or imposition if you like. Albeit with a tech twist to it. Since I can't put pen to paper for anything beyond writing down phone numbers or addresses. I am doing it here.
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
It didn't really work for my teachers back then, as in I didn't stop talking or keep my classwork up to date or anything. But I remember I didn't do that. So I am hoping this exercise will keep reminding me.
PS: I typed in all that no C&P!
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
I will not let cynicism take over my life
It didn't really work for my teachers back then, as in I didn't stop talking or keep my classwork up to date or anything. But I remember I didn't do that. So I am hoping this exercise will keep reminding me.
PS: I typed in all that no C&P!
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