As Chennai gets ready to celebrate the New Year, many are sparing a thought for ‘Damini’, the Delhi rape victim who passed away a few days ago. However, it doesn’t seem to extend beyond that, as most are proceeding with their plans for 31st night.
Anjana D*, a college student, said, “I was at the candlelight vigil at Marina Beach on Sunday evening. And as a girl, I do feel terrible at the loss that the girl and her family suffered. But cancelling new year plans isn’t going to change what happened. I want to start 2013 on a good note and with positive thoughts. There should be a change in people’s mindset regarding rape, that is my wish for the new year.”
Several other youngsters echoed her sentiments, adding that they were not insensitive to the situation, but that they would rather take practical measures to combat the atrocities against women than just have a token day of abstaining from fun.
David Marcus, an IT professional, said that instead of not attending the new year bash at a star hotel with his friends, he would resolve to help any woman who was being harassed. “ That is my new year resolution. Not only me, but I would encourage my friends to make a positive change in the world by being respectful of women,” he said.
The festivities would definitely be toned down at Geetha Raman’s* residence. As a women’s activist, she says she feels personally affected by what happened.
“Even in Chennai we have had a rape and murder. I really don’t feel like there is anything to celebrate under these circumstances. The coming year is not going to magically change the attitude of the country, and only on that day will it be a happy new year,” she says.