Amboli murders trigger drive against sexual harassment

In the wake of the tragic murders of two young men who stood up against eve-teasing in Amboli last month, RN Podar School has decided to conduct workshops and a signature campaign against sexual harassment.

“We want to orient the students, especially girls, on how to protect themselves against such untoward incidents,” said Avnita Bir, the school principal. She continued, “Young minds need to be aware of their rights and learn the mechanisms against self-defence. We are preparing them for public life by exposing such issues before them. It’s a part of their education.”

It will not only entail lectures by experts, but also pro-active support from children as young at 12 who will get spread the word in their neighbourhood and get parents to sign the petition against sexual harassment.

“This workshop will train students to give up their fears and act against a common injustice — sexual harassment,” said Class 10 student Pashmina Oberoi, a core committee member. “We are planning to conduct debates, skits and documentaries to highlight women’s issues. Being sexually harassed is nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s our way of ensuring support for the cause that Keenan and Reuben gave up their lives for,” she said.

The workshop will be held in collaboration with the Zero Tolerance Campaign that has struck a chord with Mumbaikars after the Amboli  tragedy.