“Bus stops are not safe. Men who hang around come, stare and push against us there. ” This is the statement by women during a survey conducted by Vimochana and other NGOs.
The survey was conducted among 2,647 women in Bangalore in 2012-13. It showed that 1,803 cases of harassment in buses were reported, which means that 69 per cent of the women reported being sexually harassed in buses. The numbers could actually be much higher, considering that a lot of women do not even report it-- be it the use of vulgar language, staring pointedly, physical attacks such as touching, feeling; grabbing; indecently exposing; stalking; photographing or shooting videos without consent, it said.
The Bangalore Bus Prayaanikara Vedike (BBPV) will use BMTC’s monthly Bus Day, to create awareness on sexual abuse on public transport, persuade women to raise their voice and complain.
“When we come out and express our anger at cases of rape that make headlines in the media, we cannot remain silent regarding everyday harassment experienced by women, with no action taken against the perpetrators,” said a statement from the Vedike.
The forum believes that speaking out against sexual abuse, registering a complaint, lodging a complaint with BMTC or with the police will help in reducing sexual abuse on buses.
It is going to organise a campaign at the various bus stops. It will be organised at the Majestic pedestrian flyover near Sangam theatre.
Bus Day Today
The BMTC, in a statement, said Bus Day will be observed on Old Airport Road, ITPL, Sarjapura Road, Hosur Road, Bannerghatta Road, Kanakapura Road, Mysore Road, Magadi Road, Tumkur Road, Bellary Road, Thanisandra Road, Hennur Road and Old Madras Road on Wednesday. At least 1,500 general shifts will be operated beyond 10 pm on the day.