Date:21/01/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/01/21/stories/2007012116340200.htm

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Karnataka - Bangalore

Now they are hitting back at ogling men

Govind D. Belgaumkar

AGAINST EVE TEASING: A member of `Blank Noise' on Brigade Road in Bangalore.

BANGALORE: A young man on Brigade Road here saw a woman leaning against the railing. She stared at him.

He thought he could get friendly and approached her. Soon, he was surrounded by more women.

They too stared at him. He went hot under the collars and wanted to get away.

He pretended getting a call, held his mobile phone to his ear and silently slithered away.

No accident

This was no accident. The women had stationed themselves to hit back at ogling men.

Led by artiste Jasmeen Patheja, a group of 30 women plans to be on Brigade Road and stare insensitive men into shame on Sunday evening.

"Eve teasing in Bangalore is bad. As bad as anywhere," Ms. Patheja says.

She started "Blank Noise", a group that challenges and fights eve teasing.

"Blank" because there is no verbal communication and "Noise" because the silence has the required effect.

"At least, it generates a debate," Ms. Patheja says.

Also the sessions have had positive impact on women who participate in the staring bouts. It boosts their confidence. Yamini Deendayal, one of the participants, says even men on Brigade Road now know she is part of the group. "Blank Noise" invites women to become "action heroes."

A poster asks women, "Do you accept it because you expect it? Blank Noise calls you to take a stand against eve teasing."

Ms. Patheja's initiative has spread to five cities, including Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Those who wish to be with her on Sunday on Brigade Road may contact her on Ph.: 9886840612 or blanknoiseproject blogspot.com.