Delhi:
She is a fitness freak and has never missed an opportunity to prove it. But on Sunday, actor Gul Panag had a nasty experience while participating in the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon 2010.
Panag says she was touched by men inappropriately during a sudden stampede. And the former Miss India claims she isn't surprised.
"I am not at all shocked by the instance. It is most likely to happen if you are in Delhi. I just wonder when it's going to change, the typical north Indian male mentality. Just by having pretty roads and good infrastructure at places, you cannot sit back with a Capital city that's totally unsafe. It is difficult being a woman in Delhi," said an enraged Panag.
According to a recent survey, more than 70 per cent of Delhi women feel unsafe while out on the roads, commuting in public transport or walking around shopping. Out of every five women, three have experienced some kind of sexual harassment while travelling in local buses, autos and what is considered a safe option, the Metro. Public transport, buses and roadsides are reported as spaces where women face high levels of sexual harassment.
"I won't advocate running around the city to women in Delhi. When you are at a busy junction here, you won't know who has touched your butt or pressed your breasts. It has to be the ugliest experience for a woman, but here you have no choice but get used to it," she said.
In a move that will make workplaces more secure for women, the Cabinet recently approved the protection of women against sexual harassment at workplace bill, 2010. The bill will be introduced in the Winter Session.
Under the legislation, women will have a forum to complain against harassment at the workplace.
The legislation will apply to all organised and unorganised sectors and non-complying employers will face penalty.