Women who work to feed their families are the most vulnerable target of molesters
KARACHI: This is apropos your editorial “Sexual harassment on campus” (May 18). The widespread issue of women’s sexual harassment is finally coming out of the closet and we must keep the momentum and exposure going.
In Pakistan, many women have experienced sexual harassment but such cases often remain unreported. Women often stay quiet due to the fear of bringing shame to their families, not to forget the fact that they are repeatedly told to stay quiet or face consequences. The case of Karachi University’s professor reporting the issue was tremendously brave, especially in a country like Pakistan where speaking out against sexual harassment is a taboo.
Most people don’t even consider constant staring, intentional touching and making explicit remarks as sexual harassment — women who travel in public transport are at the receiving end of this kind of behaviour on a daily basis. Women who work to feed their families are the most vulnerable target of molesters. It is now our turn to stand up against sexual harassment.
I urge the government to take serious steps in the right direction and protect women whether it is from honour killing or sexual harassment — both of which are blatant human rights violations.
Sehrish Ali
Published in The Express Tribune, May 20th, 2016.
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