BHU promotes modernity with moral values: Chief proctor Royana Singh

Royana Singh clears the air about the alleged gender discrimination in the campus and the lathicharge on students last month.
Prof Royana Singh
Prof Royana Singh

VARANASI: Banaras Hindu University’s (BHU) first woman chief proctor Royana Singh clears the air about the alleged gender discrimination in the campus and the lathicharge on students last month.
 
Eve-teasing as a menace on campus
 
It is an issue linked to mindset of the perpetrators. Girls need respect. So sensitizing the potential doers in phased manner and making the girls equipped martial arts is the priority. The body language of girls should be such that the people can't dare touch them. They have to have a certain attitude while carrying themselves on campus.
 
Immediate measures that are being taken include lighting up the hot spots. Surveillance and security across campus is spruced up. Teachers are also vigilant and alert against any such happening. The proctorial board with Quick Response Teams is there to act promptly against such rowdy elements.
 
Communication gap
 
While I think, students will have to come forward and report the issues to us immediately. We are there to listen to them and act. It is also imperative to sensitize the security staff.  The way a particular guard behaved with the victim during last month turmoil, it was uncalled for and action has been taken against him. We have floated helpline numbers, special apps are on anvil and social media tools are there to make it easier for the girls to share their agony.
 
Security contingent
 
We have deployed around 30 lady guards at sensitive positions. Security on the whole campus is also beefed up with CCTV camera already installed at many places and work is on.
 
Gender bias
 
Being a votary of equal rules and regulations, I have already started working to bring about parity in terms of curfew timings, dress, food and other issues on campus. Reporting time for girls has been extended from 6 pm to 7.30 pm to begin with as also the hours for visiting library. 
 
Curbs on dress
 
I am a votary of no curbs on dresses. Everyone should have the sense of what to wear where since it is a very personal choice. The clothes they comfortable in should be allowed to them but at the same time they should also be mindful of grace and decency.
 
Allowing booze on campus (as reported by a section of media attributing it to her)
 
Not only liquor but even soft drinks, smoking and any kind of addiction is strictly prohibited on my campus. We advocate modernity with moral values.
 
Students' representation in campus committees
 
We are trying to rope them in the proctorial board which has 45 members at present. It would be hostel-wise so that their issues can be communicated to us immediately. The district administration has also shown willingness to be part of drives to sensitise the students and security personnel.

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