It is imperative that the authorities opt out of such shortcuts for this serious problem of harassment
RAWALPINDI: I often use the Metro Bus service to commute between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. In my recent experience, the woman at the ticket counter draped a black chadar all over her face, not leaving any area open even for her eyes. While this was unusual — and probably obstructing her vision — this was not the first time. Females stationed at the entry point who scan bags had also covered their faces. The friendly manner of correspondence with their fellow male colleagues hinted that this was not a niqab by choice but by policy or social need.
Such safeguards hint at the social discomfort and visual and verbal harassment that female staff in public places face. However, it is not right for public institutions to bow towards acceptance of this harassment. They should instead aim to change the mindset. Public places can send messages of gender equality, civic sense and personal space. It is imperative that the authorities opt out of such shortcuts for this serious problem of harassment and on the contrary, use this platform to address and reform social malice. Well designed and socially conscious signboards and demonstrations might help, as can imposition of fines on misconduct.
Tayeba Batool
Published in The Express Tribune, October 27th, 2016.
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