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Sexual Harassment Accused Arrested in Kerala After 700 CCTV Scans Across 3 States

April 14, 2025, 3:16 am

Bengaluru police successfully arrested a man accused of sexually harassing a woman after launching a multi-state manhunt that lasted nearly a week. Investigators combed through 700 CCTV recordings before tracking the accused to a remote village in Kerala.

CCTV Footage Triggers Manhunt

The case began when a CCTV video surfaced, showing a man trailing two women in an alley in Bengaluru’s BTM Layout. The man groped one of the women while her friend attempted to intervene. He then fled the scene, sparking public outrage.

Accused Fled Across States

Identified as 26-year-old Santosh, a driver at a Jaguar showroom in Bengaluru, the accused initially escaped to Hosur in Tamil Nadu. He then moved through Salem and Kozhikode before being caught in a secluded Kerala village.

Victims Seek Privacy, Police File Case

Police registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with assault, sexual harassment, and stalking. Authorities managed to locate the victims, but both women requested privacy and chose not to participate in the investigation, according to sources.

The poor quality of the CCTV footage initially hampered efforts to identify the accused, posing a significant challenge for law enforcement.

Minister’s Comment Sparks Political Storm

The incident triggered a political backlash after Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara commented, “In such a big city, such incidents will happen. We will take the necessary action according to the law.” He added that the police commissioner had been instructed to increase patrol and surveillance efforts.

The remark drew sharp criticism from the opposition BJP. Party spokesperson Prashanth G labelled it “insensitive” and accused the minister of normalising crimes against women. Former Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan also condemned the statement, saying it showed the minister’s helplessness and eroded public confidence.

Minister Issues Apology

Amid backlash, G Parameshwara later issued an apology, stating that his comment was misunderstood. “I want to clarify that the statement I made yesterday wasn’t understood properly. I am someone who has always had a lot of concern for the safety of women… If any woman has been hurt, I express my regret and apologise,” he said.

Police continue their investigation while reaffirming their commitment to ensuring women’s safety in the city.

Bajinder Singh Calls Viral Assault Video ‘AI-Generated,’: Video Of Slapping Women | WATCH

March 26, 2025, 11:05 am

Self-styled pastor Bajinder Singh from Punjab is facing severe criticism after a viral CCTV clip showed him physically assaulting his employees. The footage, which surfaced in February, allegedly captures Singh slapping a male staff member and throwing papers at a woman seated with a child on her lap. When the woman confronted him, he reportedly pushed her away and slapped her as well.

Amid the backlash, a new video recently emerged in which Singh appeared alongside the man he allegedly slapped. The individual claimed that the viral footage was AI-generated, an assertion that was met with skepticism online. A social media user countered this claim by sharing a different-angle recording of the same incident, further fueling controversy.

Victim Files Complaint Against Pastor

Following the incident, the woman in the video, identified as Ranjit Kumar, lodged a complaint with DSP Mullanpur. Speaking to ANI, she detailed the assault, stating, “When I tried to stop Pastor Bajinder Singh from hitting a person, he struck me with a notebook. At the time, my 1.5-year-old daughter was with me. He also assaulted the boy present there. The government should investigate whether the footage is real or AI-generated. After this, I resigned from the church. He also threatened me.”

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

How many of you think the CCTV footage below is AI-generated? ☠️?? https://t.co/XSwxbFWCeg pic.twitter.com/WJv8Xj5s1F

— BALA (@erbmjha) March 25, 2025

DSP Mohit Kumar Aggarwal confirmed that multiple individuals had reported mistreatment by Singh following prayer sessions. Authorities have assured appropriate action against him.

Sexual Harassment Allegations Emerge

Adding to Singh’s legal troubles, a 22-year-old woman in Jalandhar accused him of sexual harassment in a complaint filed on February 28. She claimed that after her family began attending his church in 2017, Singh started messaging her privately. Fearful of repercussions, she refrained from informing her parents. By 2022, he allegedly began isolating her in a cabin after Sunday mass, where he inappropriately touched and hugged her. She further accused him of threatening her family if she reported his actions.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Yesterday, the team of self-styled Christian pastor Baljinder claimed the viral video of him beating his staff was AI-generated. Now, another CCTV clip from a different angle has surfaced. Today, the victim, Ranjit Kaur, filed a complaint with DSP Mullanpur against the pastor. https://t.co/v1TyYmuAga pic.twitter.com/p52js4CFoS

— Gagandeep Singh (@Gagan4344) March 25, 2025

Legal Charges Against Bajinder Singh

Singh has been booked under multiple IPC sections, including 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation). A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by SP (Phagwara) Rupinder Kaur is probing the case. The Punjab State Women Commission has taken suo-motu cognizance, ensuring security for the complainant, while the National Commission for Women (NCW) has demanded swift legal action.

This is not Singh’s first brush with the law. In 2018, he was arrested at Delhi airport while attempting to travel to London after a Zirakpur woman accused him of sexual harassment. Recently, a Mohali court issued warrants against him in that case. In 2022, he was accused of extorting money from a Delhi family for treating their daughter, who later passed away. Additionally, in 2023, the Income Tax department conducted raids on his premises.

Singh Denies Allegations

Dismissing all accusations, Singh has labeled them baseless, claiming that digital evidence can be easily fabricated. He also suggested that the complainant suffered from seizures due to “evil spirits.” Despite his denials, the growing list of complaints and legal actions against him has intensified public scrutiny of his actions.

UP Man’s 2 Years Of Harassment: ‘Sent Me Explicit Messages’, Says Gurugram Woman

February 8, 2025, 8:20 am

A woman from Gurugram, Gunisha Sahni, has accused a man from Uttar Pradesh, Harshit Gupta, of harassing her for two years. In a LinkedIn post, Sahni alleged that Gupta repeatedly sent her inappropriate and explicit messages and even contacted her employer with false claims, attempting to defame her.

Cybercrime Complaint Filed

After enduring persistent harassment, Sahni has now filed a cybercrime complaint against Gupta. She revealed that his actions had severely impacted her mental and physical well-being. Expressing her distress, she warned that if she were to take any extreme step, Gupta would be held responsible.

“Harshit Gupta, a fellow alumnus of Bennett University, has been relentlessly harassing me since 2023. He has not only sent me inappropriate messages without my consent but has also tried to tarnish my reputation by spreading false accusations. Most recently, he even harassed my employer with baseless claims,” Sahni stated.

She emphasized that she had ignored his actions for a long time, but the situation had escalated beyond online harassment, directly affecting her well-being. She assured that she would take further legal action to put an end to it.

Pattern of False Accusations

Sahni further claimed that she was not the only one facing such harassment from Gupta. According to her, he has a pattern of targeting individuals and contacting their employers with false allegations.

“If anything happens to me, it will be solely due to the relentless harassment I have endured at the hands of Harshit Gupta. I refuse to let my career and reputation be ruined by malicious lies,” she asserted.

She urged people to report Gupta’s profile if he approached them with baseless accusations. Expressing gratitude to those who supported her, she stressed that no one should have to defend themselves against fabricated claims.

Screenshots Reveal Disturbing Messages

Sahni shared screenshots of the messages sent by Gupta. On May 18, he asked for her number, and upon receiving no response, he sent another message two days later, making inappropriate remarks.

In another message on May 20, he wrote:
“Never become an escort, you’ll remain poor because no client would want you.”

Gupta’s Counter-Accusation

Taking the matter further, Gupta publicly accused Sahni of sexual harassment in a LinkedIn post, alleging that she had harassed him for years. He even reached out to Anirban Sengupta, the founder of Nirvana Digital, where Sahni is employed, requesting her resignation based on unverified claims.

In response, Sengupta clarified that the accusations were related to events before Sahni joined the company and stated that they could not verify or intervene in personal matters. He advised Gupta to address any workplace concerns through legal channels.

Sahni concluded her statement by urging people to stand against such harassment and report Gupta’s actions. She emphasized that false accusations and online harassment should never be tolerated.

Unwanted ‘Vagina-Lift’: Plastic Surgeon Performed It Secretly On Patient ‘Without Consent’

February 4, 2025, 8:48 am

Dr. David Pincus, a plastic surgeon based in Long Island, faces lawsuits for medical malpractice and sexual harassment, including unauthorized procedures, neglect of post-surgical care, and workplace misconduct.

Unconsented Medical Procedures and Patient Complaints

One former patient alleged that she consulted Dr. Pincus in 2021 for a tummy tuck but was subjected to an unexpected mons-lift procedure. “You had a very low vagina, so I had to lift it up,” Pincus reportedly told her post-surgery. The patient claims she was unaware of the procedure beforehand and now faces an additional $40,000 in corrective surgery costs. In another case, a patient accused Pincus of ignoring clear signs of infection after a 2022 breast reduction, which escalated to severe sepsis and necrosis. The woman required multiple emergency surgeries, including skin grafts, to address the damage.

Workplace Misconduct and Harassment Claims

Beyond medical malpractice, Pincus faces disturbing accusations of workplace sexual harassment. A former employee alleged that he made inappropriate advances, including grabbing her breasts and making degrading comments. She claimed Pincus coerced her into calling him “Daddy” and made explicit remarks after performing her breast augmentation. Additionally, a 2020 lawsuit accuses him of inappropriate comments directed at the 15-year-old daughter of an employee who interned at his clinic.

Doctor’s Defense

Pincus has vehemently denied the allegations. His attorney labeled the lawsuits as “baseless and frivolous,” asserting that Pincus will vigorously defend his reputation. “I refuse to be the victim of extortion,” Pincus stated, emphasising his track record of over 7,000 treated patients and numerous positive reviews.

Neil Gaiman Faces Sexual Harassment Allegations from 9 Women: Report

January 14, 2025, 1:02 pm

Neil Gaiman, renowned author of The Sandman and Coraline, is facing multiple sexual assault allegations from nine women, as revealed in a New York Magazine report.

The article, titled There Is No Safe Word, expands on earlier reports, including a six-part podcast by Tortoise Media from July. It brings forward new testimonies from eight women, who describe their experiences with Gaiman.

One of the accusers, Scarlett Pavlovich, met Gaiman through his ex-wife, Amanda Palmer, in New Zealand. She was 22 at the time and had been asked to babysit Gaiman’s young child. Pavlovich claims Gaiman sexually assaulted her during this time. According to her account, Gaiman invited her to bathe in his garden, where she alleges he touched her inappropriately, tried to force his penis into her, and made degrading requests. Pavlovich alleges the incidents continued, with one involving Gaiman using butter as lubricant for non-consensual acts. She also recounts a disturbing encounter in a hotel room in Auckland, where she alleges Gaiman initiated sexual activity while his son was present.

Pavlovich, who later signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and received $9,200 in payments, filed a police report in January 2023, but the case was closed due to lack of evidence. Gaiman’s spokesperson has denied the allegations, calling them “false, not to mention deplorable.”

Other accusers have come forward with similar claims. Caroline, who worked as a caretaker for Gaiman, alleges he initiated sexual encounters while his son was nearby, and she eventually received $300,000 in exchange for signing an NDA. Another accuser, Kendra Stout, claims Gaiman raped her in 2007 after she repeatedly refused his advances. Katherine Kendall alleges Gaiman attempted to assault her on a tour bus and later gave her $60,000 for therapy to compensate for the trauma.

Gaiman’s representatives have denied all allegations, stating that they are unfounded and false.

Olympic Wrestler Sakshi Malik ‘Seated On His Bed’ Accuses Brij Bhushan For Sexual Harassment

October 22, 2024, 11:25 am

In her memoir Witness, Sakshi Malik, the 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medallist, has recounted some of the most painful and traumatic moments of her career. Malik, who recently announced her retirement from wrestling, has made a shocking allegation against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Disturbing Incident at the 2012 Asian Junior Championship

One of the most harrowing incidents, detailed in Witness, occurred during the 2012 Asian Junior Championship in Almaty, Kazakhstan. According to Sakshi Malik, Singh lured her into his hotel room under the pretext of speaking to her parents on the phone. After the call, he allegedly tried to molest her.

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“Singh connected me to my parents. It seemed harmless. But after I ended the call, he tried to molest me while I was seated on his bed. I pushed him off and started to cry,” Malik wrote, further alleging that Singh attempted to justify his behavior by claiming his actions were paternal, saying he had put his arms around her “papa jaise” (like a father). Malik managed to escape the room, running back to hers in tears.

A Pattern of Abuse

This isn’t the only traumatic experience Malik has endured. In her memoir, she also shared a disturbing incident from her childhood, involving a tuition teacher who harassed her for an extended period. The teacher would touch her inappropriately and call her over for lessons at odd hours. For years, Sakshi Malik kept silent, fearing it was her fault. Eventually, she confided in her mother, who supported her during both the incident with the teacher and her encounter with Singh.

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Emotional Impact and Moving Forward

Reflecting on the 2012 incident, Sakshi Malik revealed that her parents advised her to focus on her training and competitions, urging her to move forward despite the trauma. “It doesn’t seem like much today, but I was grateful that I was allowed to continue to train, at least,” she said.

Malik’s courageous revelations have reignited discussions about the treatment of women in sports, particularly in wrestling, and shed light on the importance of addressing such issues openly and with the support of family and the community.

Ex Wrestling Federation Chief Seeks Early Hearing in Delhi HC to dismiss sexual harassment proceedings

October 17, 2024, 4:27 pm

Former Wrestling Federation of India Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has approached the Delhi High Court, requesting an early hearing on his plea to dismiss sexual harassment proceedings initiated by female wrestlers. The court is set to hear his application on October 18, 2024.The Delhi High Court recently issued notices to the state and police regarding Singh’s plea, with the next scheduled hearing set for January 13, 2025. Singh, a former MP, is actively contesting the allegations against him.

Singh’s Justification for Urgent Hearing

In his latest application, Singh noted that the prosecution evidence in the trial court is progressing weekly, and he believes that evidence may be completed by January. He emphasized the urgency of addressing his plea for dismissal, citing the need for a timely resolution given the trial’s current pace.

The fresh application was filed on behalf of Singh by Advocate Rajiv Mohan, with assistance from Advocates Rehan Khan and Rishabh Bhati. Singh’s petition seeks to challenge the ongoing trial court proceedings stemming from the FIR filed by several women wrestlers, aiming to quash the FIR, chargesheet, and the trial court’s order related to the framing of charges against him.

Previously, the trial court determined there was sufficient evidence to proceed with charges of sexual harassment against Singh. The Delhi Police has filed a chargesheet based on complaints from the wrestlers, which Singh is contesting in court.

R G Kar Medical College Expels Ten including Doctors, interns and students for Misconduct

October 6, 2024, 6:09 pm

R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata has expelled ten individuals, including doctors, house staff, and interns, following serious allegations of misconduct. The expelled members are accused of threatening peers, sexual harassment, forced political affiliations, and extorting money from juniors.

Findings of the Inquiry Committee

A special college council meeting was convened on Saturday after an Institutional Enquiry Committee reported substantial evidence against the accused. The expelled individuals will remain barred from the college until further notice. Notably, those with evidence of sexual harassment have been referred to the Internal Complaints Committee for further action.

Details of the Allegations

The inquiry revealed a range of misconduct, including:

Threats to fail students in university examinations
Coercion to join a specific political party and attend its rallies
Long hours of physical and mental torture
Sexual harassment and misconduct
Forced attendance in boys’ common rooms for humiliating activities
Coercion to purchase drugs and alcohol
Extortion of money for college events without proper auditing
Use of abusive language, including targeting students’ families

The actions come in the wake of complaints regarding a “threat culture” within the college, particularly after the tragic rape and murder of a junior doctor. On September 10, the college administration issued notices to 51 individuals linked to behaviors that contribute to this environment. A formal inquiry was conducted, leading to the expulsion of the ten individuals.

This significant action reflects the administration’s commitment to address misconduct and foster a safer environment for all students and staff.

Karnataka: BJP MLA Munirathna and Six Others Charged in Alleged Sexual Harassment Case

September 19, 2024, 10:04 am

A case of alleged sexual harassment has been filed against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA and former minister Munirathna, along with six others, in Ramnagar district, Karnataka. The complaint was registered at the Kaggalipura police station on Wednesday night.

The First Information Report (FIR) includes multiple charges under IPC Sections 354A, 354C, 376, 506, 504, 120(b), 149, 384, 406, and 308. The individuals named in the FIR alongside Munirathna are Vijay Kumar, Sudhakara, Kiran Kumar, Lohit Gowda, Manjunath, and Loki. According to the complaint, the incident occurred at a private resort within the jurisdiction of the Kaggalipura police station.

Currently, Munirathna is in Bengaluru police custody for allegedly threatening a contractor. A Special Court for People’s Representatives is set to hear his bail application today. If granted bail, he may still be detained near the jail due to his judicial custody status. Conversely, if bail is denied, the Kaggalipura police will seek a body warrant to take him into custody.

Munirathna was apprehended on the night of September 14 by Bengaluru police, with assistance from Kolar Police, while he was traveling to Andhra Pradesh. He was detained near Kolar.

In addition, two FIRs have been filed against Munirathna at the Vyalikaval police station following complaints from contractor Chelvaraju, who has accused him of harassment and threats. The first case involves allegations of a death threat, with four individuals named, including Munirathna, VG Kumar, Abhishek, and Vasanth Kumar. The FIRs cite charges under sections 37, 506, 505, 385, 420, and 323.

Chelvaraju has claimed that Munirathna threatened him, stating, “What happened to Renukaswamy will happen to you.” The contractor alleges that Munirathna demanded a commission related to a contract, initially asking for Rs 20 lakhs after rejecting an offer of Rs 1 lakh. He further accused Munirathna’s nephew of being involved in Renukaswamy’s murder.

Additionally, an audio clip has circulated online, purportedly featuring Munirathna using abusive language and threatening both a Dalit individual and his wife.

‘It’s A Disgusting World’: Delhi Author Harassed On LinkedIn Goes Viral

September 12, 2024, 2:32 pm

A recent post by a Delhi-based author has ignited a wave of anger online, after she shared her experience of receiving unsolicited and derogatory messages following a LinkedIn connection request. The author, a mother of two, described how these messages escalated after she accepted a professional connection on the platform, highlighting the growing issue of harassment women face even “within the safety of their homes by stranger men.”

In her LinkedIn post, she explained, “This harassment began predictably with an innocent LinkedIn connection request. After I politely responded to a ‘Thank you for adding me’ message, I started receiving a stream of unsolicited direct messages under the guise of professional communication. I chose to ignore them.”

The situation worsened when she discovered that the man had also found her Instagram account, where he proceeded to leave suggestive comments. She concluded her post by sharing screenshots of the inappropriate messages, which further fueled the outrage.

Social media users rallied around her, expressing both sympathy and outrage. Vipin R, an IIT alumnus and data scientist, commented, “I’m sorry this happened to you. On a professional network like LinkedIn, there should be a straightforward way to report harassment, but the process itself feels like harassment.”

Sushobhan Chowdhury, a founder, added, “This kind of behavior is inexcusable and deserves immediate consequences. Legal action should be taken, and the individual should be held accountable. His employer, based in Bangalore, has provided their contact details. Tracing him should be the first step. Don’t let him get away.”

Artist Richard Fraser echoed the sentiment, praising the author for speaking out: “I’m so sorry you had to go through this, but well done for speaking up. It’s shameful and pointless behavior. I hope he learns his lesson and you find peace.”

The author’s post has reignited discussions around online harassment, especially on platforms meant for professional networking, and the need for stronger reporting mechanisms to protect users from such incidents.

Can AI prevent the next RG Kar tragedy?

September 3, 2024, 2:41 am

The barbaric act of brutally raping and killing a doctor in RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata the other day has remained a shock to the nation and even the whole world. This heart wrenching event raises an old and uncomfortable question: Hum apni suraksha ke liye kis par bharosa karein? And as we recall this tragic event, one has to wonder why we stay with conventional security measures and systems when we can have AI which may contain these act in time. Thus the need for AI and modern securities system has never been more urgent, we have the tools to ensure that tragedies like this one never happen again. So, why aren’t we using them?

To understand how the use of AI can avoid such occurrence like the one that was experienced at RG Kar Medical College, it is necessary to look into details the working of an AI security system. These systems employ sophisticated algorithms that enable it work on a large amount of data obtained from video feeds, motion detectors, and other sensors in real time. Unlike human guards who might miss something or be in the wrong place at the wrong time, AI systems can monitor multiple areas simultaneously without getting tired or distracted.

In case of when AI detects something queer for instance someone has breached a restricted area or is acting in an abnormal manner the AI alerts security whose next course of action is to act. This response is very important is in order to avoid the situation get worst in affecting many lives. And also, one can state that, as the AI system can get acquainted with similar situations, it will enhance its performance in terms of threat identification. This means that the longer the system is in place the more it evolves and develops into a recognized system that can detect certain impending evils.
The development of AI systems shall follow the same fundamental approach as the experienced detective becomes more efficient in solving cases with every single case because AI learns from data and feedback mechanisms.

What I am talking is not a science fiction, it is happening in the other part of world like many states and organization has integrated the Artificial intelligence in their security system. One such example is in the New York there is a City’s Domain Awareness System (DAS), which was built in association with the Microsoft. In this system AI works as it monitors the thousands of CCTV cameras across the city and analyse the real time video feeds and identifies the illicit or suspicious behaviour and then they quickly informed to the security agencies. This system is effective and efficient as it allows the security agencies to respond to the threat in a proactive manner and they can be very much capable of then curb the threats before it escalate into the serious incident, that model of integrating modern technology with the traditional one, can be very much effective and we should adopt also and make and work towards modernising our security measures. Although, we should appreciate the Indian Railway board as they are going to integrate the artificial intelligence systems for the upcoming Kumbh mela to monitor the tracks and it also prevents any damage that may come by antisocial element. This will set an example that AI can be deployed and easily adopted within the established setup and it can also ensure the safety of the entire railway line. This means that by incorporating conventional security measures with artificial intelligence capabilities like what happened during this event, it guarantees that current investments are not thrown away but instead built upon thereby enabling better risk control through active monitoring where necessary.

Had such integrated systems been implemented at RG Kar Medical College, AI might have detected abnormal activities or unauthorized access in real time thus alerting security personnel before the tragic event occurred. The potential of security systems is shown by this successful combination of conventional surveillance and artificial intelligence to protect institutions most likely to be attacked such as hospitals. It also prevent future incidents from happening again.

Analysing the growing incidence of attacks on healthcare personnel along with the understanding that hospitals and medical colleges are weak points, it can be stated that traditional measures taken may not be enough. A camera alone cannot prevent a determined criminal from perpetrating the crime and security personnel cannot also monitor all areas at once, but these two tools can complement each other especially with AI support. AI has the capacity to monitor those areas that may not be easily noticed or are not easily accessible hence the promise of no part of a building is left unmonitored. And also it can be integrated with access control systems which directs only the authorised persons to some specific areas hence reducing cases of intruders who may bring such calamities. Thus, in this sense AI is all seeing protector that is never tired.

An important concern regarding integration of AI in safety is the invasion of privacy, while these systems gives more safety than before, they also bring concerns on excessive surveillance, to which reply at the moment is the Information Technology Act 2000, concerning electronic surveillance and data protection. Section 66E of IT Act deals specifically with privacy protection, making it illegal to capture or distribute pictures/videos without consent where a person expects privacy should prevalence place exist under broader legal provisions relating maintenance public order safety through use such this these there be done. Despite these provisions, there is a need for updating the legal framework so as to accommodate advancements brought about by AI driven security systems.

What happened at RG Kar Medical College must act as a wakeup call for all of us, because we have been negligent or those who risk their lives every day. Thus if at all we are going to avert such experience from happening again AI has to be an integral part of our security systems. The tools are there waiting to be used, let’s protect our institutions together with people who are associated with such institutions either to work or study.

This is not merely about technology, it is about being proactive, assuming responsibility and envisioning what may happen if things are not changed otherwise the tragedy at RG Kar will continue to haunt us in form of similar events that in one way or the other could have been prevented if the correct strategies and adequate equipment were employed. We cannot wait for anything more as this point means entry into the age where everything requires protection and thus is considered as dangerous unless proven otherwise.
There should be no waste of the sorrowing circumstance that follows the tragic event that happened in RG Kar Medical College. We have to make this a moment of change which will push us towards an era where technology is utilised for protection of lives, towards preventing such tragedy and ensuring that such things do not happen in places meant for healing and saving lives again. Well, we now have it in our capabilities to prevent another disaster, so please let’s do it now!

The author is Fellow(IDEAS) and Doctoral Candidate(Law), O.P. Jindal Global University

Beyond the Bengal Rape: Examining the Perilous Reality of India’s Doctors

August 31, 2024, 2:42 am

A 31-year-old female trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College retired to sleep in a seminar hall after a gruelling shift in the early hours of a Friday morning. It was the last time she was seen alive.
The following morning, her colleagues made a horrifying discovery: her half-naked body on the podium, bearing extensive injuries. Police later arrested a hospital volunteer worker in connection with what they describe as a case of rape and murder at the 138-year-old institution.
This tragic incident has reignited discussions about the safety of healthcare workers in India, particularly women. As enraged doctors across the country went on strike demanding better protection, the case has exposed the deep-rooted vulnerabilities plaguing the medical profession.

A System Under Strain
At RG Kar Hospital, which sees over 3,500 patients daily, overworked trainee doctors—some working up to 36 hours straight—had no designated restrooms. This forced them to seek rest in a third-floor seminar room, a situation that proved fatal for the young doctor.
Hospital doctors’ experiences highlight female doctors’ grim reality in India’s government hospitals. There are no designated restrooms or separate toilets for female doctors. Some of them might even sleep in an empty patient bed in the ward or a cramped waiting room with a bed and basin.
In a twist of bitter irony, those dedicated to saving lives find themselves fighting for their own safety in the very institutions meant to heal.
Women in Medicine: Progress and Peril
The face of Indian medicine, as claimed by the might of Government Statistics, is changing rapidly.
The National Medical Commission’s 2023 data shows women now make up 42% of registered medical practitioners, up from 35% in 2019. In nursing, women comprise nearly 90% of the workforce, according to the Indian Nursing Council’s latest report.
However, this progress is eclipsed by escalating safety concerns.
The National Crime Records Bureau’s 2023 report indicates a 7.6% increase in crimes against women in healthcare, with 25% involving severe violence, including sexual assault.
Recent incidents highlight this alarming trend. In March 2023, Dr. Priya Mishra, a Delhi hospital resident, was assaulted by a deceased patient’s relatives, suffering a fractured arm and facial injuries. In November, Dr. Sanjana Patil, a Pune gynecologist, endured a six-hour hostage situation by a disgruntled patient’s family.
These aren’t isolated cases. An Indian Medical Association survey in early 2024 revealed that 68% of female doctors experienced workplace violence or harassment in the past year, with 30% feeling unsafe during night shifts. In a cruel twist of fate, as women break glass ceilings in medicine, they find themselves trapped in hospitals of horrors – healing others while their own safety hangs by a thread.
One can’t help but wonder: in a profession dedicated to preserving life, why are we failing to safeguard the lives of those who serve it? And what does this say about our society’s true valuation of women’s contributions to healthcare?

A Culture of Fear for Women in India
The RG Kar Medical College incident epitomizes a pervasive culture of fear among women in India’s professional landscape, particularly in healthcare. Female doctors navigate a minefield of threats daily – from poorly lit hospital corridors to confrontations with aggressive patients.
Many resort to extreme safety measures, even bringing family members to overnight shifts.
In rural areas, the situation is dire. Female doctors in remote health centres face isolation and vulnerability, influencing career choices and exacerbating the rural healthcare divide. This fear reflects broader societal issues, persisting despite laws like the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act of 2013. The National Commission for Women reports a steady rise in workplace harassment complaints, with healthcare prominently featured.

A System in Need of Reform
India’s healthcare system suffers from systemic failures at multiple levels. The absence of a comprehensive federal law protecting healthcare workers and ineffective state legislation leaves medical professionals vulnerable. Healthcare’s status as a state subject under the Indian Constitution results in fragmented policies and implementation across the country.
Political factors complicate matters further. The government’s 2022 directive for enhanced hospital security remains unimplemented mainly due to budget constraints and a lack of political will. The intersection of gender politics and healthcare policy adds another layer of complexity, with women’s concerns often sidelined in policy discussions.

Urgent reforms needed include:
1. Robust federal legislation for healthcare worker protection
2. Mandatory safety audits and infrastructure upgrades in healthcare facilities
3. Integration of violence prevention acts in medical education
4. Fast-track courts for cases against healthcare workers
5. Increased healthcare spending, particularly on safety measures
6. A national database tracking incidents of violence against medical professionals
The medical community’s outcry following the Kolkata incident presents a critical juncture for political leadership to move beyond rhetoric. The health of India’s healthcare system – and its population – depends on creating a fear-free environment for those who heal.
Shruti Kaushik is a Branding Expert, Author, Startup Evangelist, Investor.

Kangana Ranaut Remembers Criticizing Rape Culture on Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate

August 29, 2024, 5:06 am

Kangana Ranaut has expressed her frustration with the film industry, criticizing its promotion of violence and its poor response to issues of discrimination and sexual exploitation. In a recent interview, Kangana reacted strongly to the Hema Committee’s report, which highlighted severe discrimination and sexual abuse faced by women in Malayalam cinema.

Kangana shared her long-standing concerns about these issues, noting that her efforts to address them have largely been ignored. She voiced her disappointment in industry women who continue to promote item songs and fail to take responsibility for the sexualization of young women.

When asked about the alleged rape culture in the Kerala film industry and whether it is representative of other film industries, Kangana responded sharply. She described the industry as “hopeless” and criticized it for its lack of progress despite her personal sacrifices. “I have put everything at stake, from my career to my choices,” she said. She pointed out that she has faced legal battles and struggled with the MeToo movement, which she feels has not achieved much. Despite her efforts to promote feminist cinema and equal pay, she has faced backlash from other women in the industry.

Kangana reflected on her past appearances, such as her episode on Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate, where she called out problematic portrayals of women in film. She lamented that her criticisms made her many enemies and noted that sexist and violent films continue to perform well at the box office. “I have made everyone my enemy,” she said, expressing her frustration that her efforts have seemingly led to little change.

She also criticized women who participate in item numbers and do not support other women’s work. “I am very disappointed in women who do not promote other women’s work,” she said. Kangana added that some women have questioned her fights and struggles, not understanding that she is fighting for broader change, not just for herself. She feels that her advocacy has cost her opportunities and financial gains.

Looking ahead, Kangana will next be seen in Emergency, where she plays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film, which she directed and wrote, features a cast including Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik. It is set to release in theaters on September 6.

Kolkata Rape-Murder highlights Lack of Strict Implementation

August 28, 2024, 3:02 am

“Silence gendered violence is woven intricately into the Indian social group; it is only fair to implement social awareness campaigns to assist raise awareness at the grass-root level.” When a criminal offence is committed it is wrong against humanity at large. Every crime against an individual demonstrates the state’s failure to recognize, protect and fulfill its citizen’s human rights. Among one such crime is “Rape”. It is a deep-entrenched social blight. Rape is considered to be, one of the foremost flagitious crimes towards the individual and its individuality.

The brutal rape and murder of a Post-Graduate Trainee Doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College has once again highlighted issues surrounding violence against women, the role of the legal system, and societal attitudes. Despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s repeated assertions that West Bengal is the safest state for women, this horrific crime exposes the administration’s blatant incompetence and disregard for women’s safety. Mamata Banerjee’s political rhetoric is meaningless when women in Kolkata continue to live in fear, exposed to violence and exploitation. The state’s safety measures are a cruel joke, fostering a culture of impunity where criminals walk free and victims suffer in silence. Enough with the empty promises—what Bengal needs is real action. The state government must overhaul its approach to women’s safety, from enforcing stringent law enforcement to providing a robust support system for victims.

This tragedy cannot become another statistic in India’s grim record of gender-based violence. The public demands justice, not just for this victim, but for a safer future for all women. The question remains: will the government act decisively, or will it continue to fail its people? The clock is ticking.

Crimes of this brutality—especially those involving rape—are not isolated incidents in India. In 2022, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported an average of 90 rapes per day. However, authorities acknowledge that the actual number could be much higher, as many rapes go unreported due to societal taboos. Unofficial estimates suggest that over 100 rapes occur daily in India, with a staggering 80% of them classified as brutal. Despite the shocking frequency of such attacks, society and the state have failed to address the root causes effectively.

The 1973 case of Aruna Shanbaug was a grim precursor to today’s epidemic of violence against women. After being raped and left for dead by a ward boy, she remained in a coma for 43 years, lovingly cared for by her colleagues. Her assailant, however, served only seven years in jail. Aruna’s case remained in the media spotlight for decades, yet no sweeping reforms were made to improve the safety of female medical staff. Hospitals like RG Kar Medical College continue to lack basic security protocols, leaving women vulnerable to heinous acts of violence.

Despite the public outcry that followed Aruna’s case, and the more recent protests in Kolkata, most state-run hospitals have not implemented adequate safety measures. The issue of relying on “civic volunteers” instead of trained security personnel has long been a problem in government-run hospitals. These volunteers are often paid meager wages and supplement their income through unofficial means. Many have political affiliations, which give them a degree of immunity from disciplinary action.

Nirbhaya Case Led to Major Reforms
After the equally brutal rape and fatal assault of a 22-year-old physiotherapy intern (called Nirbhaya to conceal her name as mandated by law) that occurred on December 16, 2012, in New Delhi, there were calls for reform in existing laws to deal with such a heinous crime. It did lead to changes in the law but after twelve years, the conclusion remains that the law changed, but much remained the same. Following the Nirbhaya case, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government constituted a committee headed by Justice JS Verma, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court to recommend amendments to the Criminal Law to ensure quicker trial and enhanced punishment for criminals accused of committing sexual assault against women.

The committee made some pathbreaking recommendations, some of them were accepted and some were rejected. Considering the committee’s recommendations ‘The Criminal Law (Amendment), Act 2013’ was enacted for effective deterrence against sexual offences. The major changes in the law dealing with sexual offences included expanding the ambit of rape by incorporating new offences such as stalking, acid attacks, and voyeurism into its definition. The mere threat of rape was recognized as a criminal act, subjecting the perpetrator to legal action.

Some of the major changes that the 2013 amendment brought were: Section 166A was inserted after the amendment to make the authorities, like public servants or hospital authorities, liable if they failed to discharge their duties against the victims of the crime.
The newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 which has replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in its section 199 says “Whoever, being a public servant fails to record any information given to him under sub-section (1) of section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 in relation to a cognizable offence punishable under section 64, section 65, section 66, section 67, section 68, section 70, section 71, section 74, section 76, section 77, section 79, section 124, section 143 or section 144 shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to two years, and shall also be liable to fine.”

Loopholes in Existing Legislation
The criminal justice system in India is plagued by delays, resulting in prolonged trials. Despite the establishment of fast-track courts post-Nirbhaya, the pace of justice remains sluggish. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the conviction rate for rape cases in India is dismally low. This delay and uncertainty in delivering justice emboldens perpetrators and deters victims from coming forward Secondly, Laws are only as effective as their implementation. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, introduced several provisions to deter sexual violence, including the death penalty for repeat offenders. However, the enforcement of these laws is often inconsistent. Police apathy, lack of sensitivity, and corruption further hinder effective implementation. Thirdly, while legal provisions exist to protect and support victims of sexual violence, the actual support system is often lacking. Victims frequently face societal stigma, lack of proper medical and psychological support, and inadequate witness protection programs. This systemic failure discourages many from reporting crimes. Fourthly, deep-rooted patriarchal attitudes and victim-blaming culture continue to persist in Indian society. These attitudes not only perpetuate violence against women but also create an environment where victims are discouraged from seeking justice.

Proposals for Stringent Measures and Enhanced Safety
Strengthening Fast-Track Courts: Fast-track courts should be empowered and adequately staffed to ensure speedy trials and timely justice. Cases of sexual violence should be prioritized to deliver swift justice. Measures should be taken to improve the quality of investigation and evidence collection. Police training programs should emphasize forensic evidence collection, victim support, and sensitivity. Regular audits of police stations and judicial processes should be conducted to ensure compliance with laws. Non-compliance should result in stringent penalties for the responsible authorities. Establishing accountability mechanisms for law enforcement agencies to ensure they are fulfilling their duties in investigating and prosecuting sexual violence cases. The Government and Civic Society should establish a robust support system, including free legal aid, medical care, and psychological counselling for victims of sexual violence. The Government should create a Witness Protection Programs, where in strengthening witness protection programs will ensure the safety and security of victims and witnesses during the trial process. The Civic Society including the NGOs should create a nationwide education and awareness campaigns to change societal attitudes towards sexual violence and promote gender equality and encourage community involvement in supporting victims and creating safe environments for women through local initiatives and watchdog committees. The use of safety apps and 24/7 helplines for women in distress would help. These technologies should be integrated with law enforcement agencies for prompt response. Installing surveillance cameras in high-risk areas and ensuring adequate street lighting to deter potential offenders.

The writer is an Associate Professor in Seedling School of Law and Governance, Jaipur National University, Jaipur.

Kerala HC: Woman Cannot Be Charged With Sexual Harassment Under IPC Section 354A

August 17, 2024, 4:08 pm

In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has observed that a woman cannot be charged with sexual harassment under Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), even if the harassment is alleged to have been directed at another woman. This observation was made by Justice A. Badharudeen while partially dismissing criminal proceedings initiated by a woman against her in-laws in a case of marital cruelty.

Court’s Interpretation of IPC Section 354A

The case involved serious allegations, including a claim that the complainant was sexually harassed by her sister-in-law. However, the High Court clarified that Section 354A of the IPC, which specifically deals with sexual harassment, is applicable only to men. The Court highlighted that the statute uses the term “a man” deliberately, indicating that the law does not extend to actions by women.

Justice Badharudeen noted, “To attract an offense under Section 354A of IPC, the actions described in subsections (1), (2), and (3) must be committed by ‘a man.’ The legislature’s intentional use of ‘a man’ rather than ‘any person’ indicates a clear intent to exclude women from the purview of this section.”

Background of the Case

The case in question revolved around a complaint of marital cruelty, where the woman alleged mistreatment by her husband, his parents, and his sister. The complainant accused her in-laws of various forms of cruelty, including demands for money and property, being locked in a room without food, and attempts to harm her by tampering with household appliances.

Specifically, the complainant accused her sister-in-law of coercing her into inappropriate sexual activities through threats. Criminal charges were filed against the husband and in-laws under multiple sections of the IPC, including Section 498A (cruelty by a husband or relative), Section 354A (sexual harassment), and Section 34 (acts done by multiple people with a common intention).

High Court’s Decision

Subsequently, the mother-in-law and sister-in-law approached the Kerala High Court to have the charges against them dismissed. The High Court, while addressing the case, ruled that the sexual harassment charges under Section 354A of the IPC could not be applied to women, leading to the partial dismissal of the case.

The ruling is a critical interpretation of the IPC, reaffirming that Section 354A is gender-specific, applying solely to men, and thereby excluding women from being charged under this particular law.

RG Kar Incident Shakes The Entire Nation

August 15, 2024, 2:39 am

The brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has caused nationwide outrage not just because of the heinous nature of the crime, the barbarity involved, and the alleged attempts to cover up the crime, but also because it has touched a chord on an issue that concerns every working Indian woman—that of workplace safety. In the world’s fifth largest economy, where women form a large part of the workforce, why will it be difficult to ensure physical security for women at their workplace? Why would any such incident take place inside an office—as the hospital was in the case of the young woman? Even one such incident in a country of 1.4 billion people should not take place. There is no doubt that the case sheds light on the dangers faced by junior doctors, all of whom have to work night shifts. The doctors are seeing this case through the prism of their own safety at their workplace, given that they often have to face the wrath of the patients’ family members when anything goes wrong. That is the reason why resident doctors went on a two-day nationwide strike earlier this week. But this matter transcends the issue of doctors’ safety. It is an issue of gender violence, safety of women in general, conditions being provided to women at their workplace, as well as a speedy investigation and delivery of justice, apart from the quantum of punishment that should be given in these “rarest of rare cases”.

Specifically on the issue of working conditions for women, working night shifts is a must in many professions, including healthcare and the media. Women stay in office late and return home even later. Most organisations nowadays take cases of sexual harassment very seriously and punish the perpetrators. While there are guidelines on preventing sexual harassment at workplace under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, there also must be pre-emption, especially when it’s about ensuring working women’s physical security. In fact, providing safe transport back home to women who work night shifts should be mandatory. Self-defence lessons should be given to working women as a rule. But what happens when a case of gruesome sexual violence and murder takes place inside the workplace? Then it is a case of criminal laxity—and that’s what the RG Kar administration is guilty of. It allowed the rapist and murderer, Sanjoy Roy to roam freely inside the hospital even though he was not an employee. The Kolkata Police allowed him to pose as a policeman even though he was a mere civic volunteer, and this in spite of knowing that he was acting as a tout and milking the patients. All of them are responsible for what happened to the young woman and should be made accountable for that.

Amid this, what is surprising is the manner in which this sensitive case has been mishandled by the Mamata Banerjee government. The very fact that the college and the principal initially tried to pass off the rape and murder as a case of suicide, proves that an attempt was made to cover up the incident. Mamata Banerjee should have sacked the principal, Sandip Ghosh, just for this reason. Instead, the principal, who had to resign under public pressure, was reinstated by the Chief Minister in a better-ranked medical college within a few hours. It was only the court’s intervention that resulted in the cancellation of the appointment. What kind of influence does the principal of a medical college wield over a state government for him to be reappointed in such a rush? The question that is bothering a lot of people is if the principal knows anything incriminating that may land the ruling party of Bengal in trouble. Rumours are doing the rounds about this being a gang rape, with at least one of the criminals being the son of someone influential. All these could be just rumours and could have been scotched if the Mamata Banerjee government was proactive in handing over the case to the CBI as soon as the medical students made the demand. That would have shown good intent on her part. But Mamata Banerjee’s aversion to the CBI is legendary. She calls the investigating agency partisan and a tool of the Central government to harass its opponents. It is not known if that’s the reason why she refused to meet the students’ demand. But now that the court has asked the CBI to take over the investigation, rumours are swirling in Bengal about the local police destroying evidence—which could be a canard, but the government’s action, or inaction is reinforcing this belief among a public which is furious with the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Adding fuel to the public anger are allegations of corruption and nepotism in the RG Kar Medical College. One such allegation is about the existence of a clique of politically affiliated medical interns who get medical degrees awarded to students who have not qualified, in exchange for money. All this needs a thorough investigation. There must be transparency.

No government can come across as insensitive on the issue of crime against women. The Mamata Banerjee government should ensure that the guilty—if there are more than one—are caught and no allegation of cover-up is hurled at her government. That is the least she can do to give justice to the young woman who lost her life in such a gruesome manner.

Pakistani Woman Shares Creepy Job Interview Messages, Faces Sexual Advances

July 24, 2024, 2:03 pm

A woman in Pakistan, Adina Hira, took to social media to expose the sexual advances she faced while searching for a job. In a post shared on X on July 23, Hira detailed her experience and included snapshots of inappropriate messages from job interviewers.

Creepy Messages from Interviewers

Being a girl in Pakistan is too difficult! I applied for a job on the Indeed website, which was for fresh graduates, and this is the message I received. It’s unbelievable!! Who knows how many innocent girls they must have taken advantage of. When a fresh graduate looks for a job, pic.twitter.com/QCDTeRZlLr

— Adina Hira (@_dinatweets_) July 23, 2024

Hira, a recent graduate, applied for jobs on the Indeed website. Instead of professional responses, she received unsettling messages from hiring managers. One message stated that she “needs to be ready to cooperate with the boss regarding any activities,” and when she asked for clarification, the person responded that she would have to “spend some quality time with your boss.” Another interviewer, named Sadam Bhukari, mentioned she would need to “fulfill some special and personal tasks for the boss.”

Social Media Reactions

Hira’s post quickly gained attention, with many people expressing their outrage and offering support. Comments ranged from advice on taking legal action to suggestions for exposing the individuals involved.

An individual wrote, “Also call them out on LinkedIn, get the support of the community so we can warn others.”

Another user, Dr. Farhan K Virk, commented, “File an appeal for harassment with the federal ombudsperson. It’s the safest & quickest way to get justice. They will have to pay for this.”

Bilal Khan shared, “Good job taking the first step exposing the criminal employer. Now, take it further and post their address and the names of the individuals who are involved. Most girls don’t take this step in Pakistan, India, and third-world countries. So nice job once again. Every girl must not fear these animals regardless of how much money they offer or whoever they are. Never remain silent.”

A fourth added, “This is absolutely disgusting. If he’s demanding sexual favours so casually from employees, one can only wonder what he’s done to others who are already working for him. He cannot be in power.”

SpiceJet Staff Arrested For Slapping CISF ASI Claims Sexual Harassment

July 13, 2024, 6:16 pm

A SpiceJet employee, who allegedly slapped an Assistant Sub-Inspector of Central Industrial Security Force at Jaipur Airport on Thursday, claimed that she acted in retaliation for sexual harassment.

The staff member told ANI on Saturday, “I report for duty at the same time. Like every day, at 4:30 am on July 11, I was doing my work when ASI Giriraj Prasad came and said, ‘Give us a chance to take care of you’. Then, when I asked him to call a lady constable for frisking. He again said, ‘How much money will you charge for a night?’.”

She continued, “He said, ‘Listen to me, you’ll feel better. Your work will get done quickly.’ I told him that I would file a police complaint against you to which he said, ‘You can’t do anything to me. I have seen a lot of women like you, I’ll get you fired. Tumhare jaisi bazaaru aurat maine bohot dekhi hai, tumhey naukri se nikalwa dunga.

The incident of the SpiceJet woman employee slapping ASI Giriraj Prasad after a verbal spat was captured in a viral video.

#WATCH | Jaipur, Rajasthan: A SpiceJet employee seen hitting security personnel in a viral video alleges that "At 4:30 am on 11th July, I was doing my work when ASI Giriraj Prasad said 'humey bhi apna seva-paani ka mauka do', 'ek raat rukne ka kya logi'…I told him that I would… https://t.co/6pYzPauFxh pic.twitter.com/A2Gbal1R2p

— ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2024

The SpiceJet employee was arrested based on the complaint by ASI Prasad, wherein he mentioned that she had slapped him during an argument at the airport over security frisking.

Replying to the complaint filed by ASI Prasad, she said, “He filed a complaint against me before I did. I have not complained anywhere else except to the police.”

SpiceJet released a statement: “Today, an unfortunate incident happened at Jaipur Airport involving a SpiceJet female security staff member and a CISF male personnel. While escorting a catering vehicle at the steel gate, our female security staff member, who had a valid airport entry pass issued by the BCAS, made a complaint of inappropriate and unacceptable language used by the CISF personnel against her and further asking her to come and meet him after his duty hours at his home. SpiceJet is taking immediate legal action in this serious case of sexual harassment against its female employee and has approached the local police. We are entirely with our employee and committed to giving her full support in this matter.”.

The lady, who has spent the last five years with SpiceJet, said she was aware of all the security protocols.

He complained that the SpiceJet crew member reached the airport at 4 am when he was on duty. He alleged that she wanted to enter the airport without a security check and that on being stopped, refused screening saying there was no female staff. He claimed he then called up the airport control to seek female staff. He said that the crew member became angry, argued with him and slapped him before a female staff member arrived.

Their statement that I was forcing to go inside and that I did not have a valid card is wrong. We meet CISF staff every day but normally, we coordinate with the female staff. We do not even talk to the male staff on a daily basis. There is a female staff member there in the morning every day, but at night there are no female staff members. It happens every day that we take the catering van, give them the slip, and go towards the departure hall. Never is any female staff there,” hit back the SpiceJet employee.

Early this morning, Advocate Deepak Chouhan, who is representing the SpiceJet employee, told ANI, “The SpiceJet employee has been arrested. It was the CISF ASI at Jaipur Airport who sexually harassed her. Abusive words were used against her, which caused her to lose her cool and slap the CISF officer. This was her natural response to that incident. We mentioned in the FIR in court that the woman had never shown such behavior in the past. Had this been her usual behavior, such incidents would have come to light earlier. However, this is a matter of investigation.”

This Is What Elon Musk Told HR, Following Open Letter Filed By SpaceX Employees, I….

June 13, 2024, 12:08 pm

As Elon Musk continues to face heat over sexual harassment, it looks like there is no end to his troubles, as SpaceX ex-engineers have also accused Musk of creating a hostile work environment in their complaints, to the US’s National Labor Relations Board.

According to their complaints, musk deliberately created a hostile environment of the workplace on the basis of his conduct, where he interrupted the workplace, by spreading disgusting sexual photographs, offensive memes and commentaries, that targeted women and members of LGBTQ+ community.

‘Musk knowingly and purposefully created an unwelcome hostile work environment based upon his conduct of interjecting into the workplace vile sexual photographs, memes, and commentary that demeaned women and/or the LGBTQ+ community’ recounted employees.

In addition, the engineers also used to give offensive names to products at the expense of women and LGBTQ+ community.

Elaborating more on this point, they gave an example of one camera, which was given the name ‘Upskirt Camera’, which was used on the first stage of Falcon rocket to view second stage’s bottom.

‘Employees Complain to the Company’

Later, the employees raised their voices by writing an open letter in 2022, which exposed musk’s ‘problematic behavior.’ When the official of SpaceX HR talked about initiating formal probe into the matter, the SpaceX CEO said, ‘I don’t care — fire them’.

Earlier, this open letter was shared in the SpaceX’s Microsoft internal channel which said, ‘Elon’s behavior in the public sphere is a frequent source of distraction and embarrassment for us, particularly in recent weeks.

The letter further stated that Elon musk is the face of SpaceX company, whatever he comments and tweets, becomes a de-facto public statement offered by the company and they also emphasized, that it is necessary to make the team clear, that musk’s messaging doesn’t reflect their work, mission and values.

Even though, SpaceX and Elon musk have refrained themselves from commenting on the lawsuit, however, the SpaceX CEO had earlier denied all of these allegations and asserted, that musk wasn’t involved in their termination.

Meanwhile, this complaint comes day after wall street journal report recently alleged, musk made sexual advances to women employees at SpaceX, which included company’s ex-intern with whom he had sex.

However, the SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell alleged, that the journal report is full of ‘untruths, mischaracterizations, and revisionist history.’

Delhi Court Orders Charges to Be Framed Against Brij Bhushan for Sexual Harassment

May 10, 2024, 6:33 pm

Delhi court has framed charges against BJP leader Brij Bhushan Singh in a case concerning the alleged sexual harassment of five female wrestlers. The charges include offenses related to outraging the modesty of women. The court found adequate evidence to proceed with charges against Brij Bhushan Singh under sections 354 and 354A of the Indian Penal Code in connection with each victim.

While addressing the case, the court stated, “Charges were framed against Brij Bhushan under sections 354 and 354A in respect of each victim.” However, the court acquitted Brij Bhushan Singh of the charges brought forth by the sixth wrestler.

The framing of charges marks a significant development in the legal proceedings, highlighting the gravity of the allegations and the subsequent judicial process. The court’s decision to proceed with charges under specific sections underscores the seriousness with which such cases are handled within the legal framework.

Brij Bhushan Singh’s case has drawn attention due to his political affiliation, emphasizing the broader societal discussions surrounding women’s safety and accountability, especially within influential circles.

The court’s verdict reflects a crucial step in addressing allegations of misconduct and upholding legal accountability, contributing to the ongoing discourse on women’s rights and justice in India.

G Parameshwara: Blue-Corner Notice For Prajwal Revanna Issued

May 5, 2024, 5:02 pm

Karnataka’s Home Minister G Parameshwara announced that a blue-corner notice has been issued to track down Prajwal Revanna, the suspect in a case involving sexual harassment and abduction. He also emphasized that the state administration has granted the special investigation team (SIT) complete autonomy to conduct its inquiry into the matter.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, G Parameshwara said, “The SIT is doing things as per procedure, and a fair investigation will be conducted. We gave full freedom to SIT for a fair investigation and they are already on the job.”

Responding to inquiries regarding the issuance of a blue-corner notice for Prajwal Revanna, who absconded abroad, Parameshwara said, “It is true that a blue-corner notice has been issued to find him. The concerned officers will locate him; we are trying to bring him back to the country. SIT is putting all efforts to bring him to India by following all the procedures.”

HD Revanna was apprehended by the SIT on Saturday evening in connection with a kidnapping case related to allegations of sexual abuse involving his son, Prajwal Revanna, the MP for Hassan. His arrest followed the dismissal of his anticipatory bail plea by a Bengaluru court.

HD Revanna underwent a medical examination on Saturday evening at Bowring Medical Institute, and he is expected to be presented before the magistrate today.

Following the series of sexual harassment allegations against HD Revanna and his son, Prajwal Revanna, a new case was registered on Thursday night against HD Revanna and his associate Sathish Babanna in Mysuru. The case alleges the abduction of a woman, who is also reportedly a victim of the alleged sexual abuse by MP Prajwal Revanna.

The SIT has issued a second lookout notice for Prajwal Revanna, who failed to appear for questioning.

Legislative Assembly Committee Probes Allegations of Sexual Harassment Against School Principal

January 11, 2024, 1:31 pm

The Fact Finding Committee of the Legislative Assembly has initiated an inquiry into the disturbing case of alleged sexual harassment involving 142 female students and the Principal of a Government School in Uchana, Jind, Haryana. The investigation was entrusted to this committee following allegations by Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala. To facilitate the inquiry, the committee has requested a comprehensive report on the matter from the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the School Education Department, Sudhir Rajpal, and the Director General of Police (DGP), Shatrujit Kapoor.

The Education Department has been directed to provide insights into the complaints received against the Principal, detailing his working style. Simultaneously, the DGP has been tasked with furnishing information on the timeline of when a complaint was lodged against the accused principal, the filing of a DDR or FIR, and the subsequent actions taken by the police.

Education Minister Kanwar Pal Gurjar is heading the committee formed in response to the Assembly’s outcry. Other members include Rohtak MLA BB Batra, Ambala City MLA Aseem Goyal, and Julana MLA Amarjeet Singh Dhanda. Advocate General Baldev Raj Mahajan has been invited to the committee as a special participant.

The controversy surrounding the Uchana case in Jind dominated discussions during last year’s winter session of the Assembly. The dispute between Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala and former Education Minister Geeta Bhukkal led to serious allegations against the accused principal. Dushyant claimed that the principal faced accusations of sexual harassment in 2005 and 2011-12.

The disagreement between Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala and Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal prompted the decision to investigate the matter initially by a sitting judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Subsequently, due to opposition from Congress, it was resolved to investigate an Assembly committee rather than involving a High Court judge. The committee is mandated to probe allegations against the principal spanning the years 2005 to 2023.

Playing with honour of sportswomen!

January 23, 2023, 2:05 pm

Are Women Unsafe Even Among Wrestlers? There Have Been Allegations Of Sexual Harassment In The World Of Sports Too

The daughters of our country are leaving no stone unturned to touch the sky in every field of life, but it is unfortunate that the eyes of the hungry wolves are fixed on them.

Right from hockey to football, table tennis, kabaddi, taekwondo, athletics to sports organisations, they keep landing in controversies due to favouritism and various other reasons. Many a time, the Supreme Court has also had to make rules, but the agitation by the women wrestlers of India is much more serious than any other row. This is an unprecedented protest and it should not be seen through any partisan prism. It is essential to bring out the whole truth behind the serious allegations of sexual harassment levelled by the women wrestlers of the country because any such allegation is a matter of grave concern.

The wrestlers who have levelled allegations against the president of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and who are sitting on dharna are not ordinary people. Be it Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik or Bajrang Punia, all have brought laurels to India at the international level. Their achievements have enhanced the honour of the tricolour. They have made crores of Indians proud with their unmatched performance. There is a saying in our country that there is no smoke without fire. Therefore, if there is smoke, there must be a fire somewhere. Where is this fire and how did it start? Unless and until it is investigated, the truth will not come out. Vinesh Phogat had categorically said earlier also that the WFI president had sexually exploited many girls. Many coaches of the federation even allegedly misbehave with the women coaches. Sakshi Malik also made similar allegations. Bajrang Punia also came forward in her support. So many allegations cannot be made just like that! No girl puts her honour at stake unless it is too much to tolerate, that’s why this agitation was resorted to! The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P T Usha has also expressed concern over this whole episode. She has also been very vocal about the allegations of disorganisation and favouritism in sports organisations. She too got a chance to enter the field after a long delay and after a lot of effort.

It is an accepted tradition in our country that if a person has been accused of any serious allegation, he should step down from his post so that there is no hindrance in bringing out the truth. Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s statement that “I have not become president at anyone’s mercy, I am an elected president, why should I resign?” is uncalled for. However, when the sports minister Anurag Singh Thakur announced the formation of an oversight committee and the IOA formed a seven-member committee, the wrestlers called off their protest. The sports minister has also suspended an official and cancelled the ranking tournament. Let’s hope that the investigation into the allegations will also be carried out with complete transparency.

However, in the world of sports, allegations of sexual exploitation and playing with the honour of sportswomen have been made earlier too. Only last year, a female cyclist accused her coach of sexual harassment. She had filed a written complaint with the Sports Authority of India (SAI). SAI and the Cycling Federation of India had also formed a panel to investigate the matter. You will be surprised to know that over the last 10 years, SAI received 45 complaints of sexual harassment and 29 of them were against the coach. Unfortunately, things like what investigation was carried out on the complaints, how many were found guilty and how many were punished, are never made public. Why is it so? You must remember that Sandeep Singh, a former hockey player and the then minister of state for sports of Haryana, was accused of molestation by a coach of the women’s hockey team and Singh had to resign.

Many sporting organisations have been embroiled in controversies from time to time for different reasons. But the protest by the women wrestlers of India at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar over the allegations of sexual harassment against WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is too serious a controversy to be ignored. This protest should not be seen through any partisan prism.

As for the allegations of women wrestlers, it is being argued that they should have first complained to the internal committee. Workplaces, sports institutes, training places, stadiums and sports complexes come under the Sexual Harassment Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal Act 2013. There is an internal committee under this Act. From the legal point of view, there should be 50 per cent women in the internal committee and the chairperson should also be a woman, but only one of the five members of the internal committee of the WFI is a woman. So how could women wrestlers trust that committee?

Regardless of various provisions of law, complaints of sexual harassment have been surfacing continuously. It is still a long shot to curb these shameful acts. I think we have to work on many levels simultaneously to change the shameful trait of molestation and sexual harassment. The law is in its place and law also does its work but the system has to be made very effective and transparent. Also, it is necessary to change the male authoritarian mindset. The tendency ingrained in the society to see girls only as an object has to be dealt with at the level of the society itself. We have to educate our sons that a woman is not just an object. Her thinking and her feelings deserve the same respect as that of a man. Our daughters have also shown the vastness of their abilities in the field of sports. We have to make sure that they can fly freely to the best of their ability. Exploiting someone physically in the name of training is not only a heinous criminal act but also the limit of disgusting mentality. Our culture has been to worship women. We even see our country as our mother. Playing with the honour of daughters in such a country cannot be tolerated at all!

The author is the chairman, Editorial Board of Lokmat Media and former member of Rajya Sabha.

Haryana sports minister sexually harassed athletics coach, booked

January 1, 2023, 11:26 am

Sandeep Singh, the sports minister for Haryana, has been arrested by the Chandigarh police after a female junior athletics coach filed a complaint alleging that he had harassed her sexually.

Police said a case under Sections 354 (Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), 354B (Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 342 (wrongful confinement) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was registered at the Sector 26 police station on Saturday.

The female coach said on Thursday that Singh, a former hockey captain and BJP MLA from Pehowa in Kurukshetra, engaged in sexual assault when she visited his official residence in Chandigarh. Singh is also a former captain of the Indian hockey team.

She met senior superintendent of police (SSP) Manisha Choudhary and superintendent of police (SP, city) Shruti Arora when she went to the Chandigarh police headquarters on Friday.

However, the minister rejected the accusation as baseless and demanded an impartial investigation.

The woman, who was posted as a junior coach in September of 2022, said “I have full faith in the Chandigarh police and was assured a fair inquiry”.

She was also selected for the government’s outstanding sports person scheme and competed in the Rio Olympics.