Eve-Teasing refers to the public sexual harassment or molestation of women by men. You may not have heard of the term, but I’m sure you have seen it being done. It brings me a lot of grief to accept the fact that the malpractice of eve-teasing has become common in our beloved city, Udaipur. What could possibly be worse? The members of our very own society refuse to take a stand, sparing Eve-Teasers so that they have nothing to worry about. Udaipur has seen rapid economic development over the last few years. Why haven’t we been able to see such development socially? The issue over Eve-Teasing highlights the lack of respect we have for women in our society. While women feel threatened and frustrated at instances of Eve-Teasing, most feel helpless regarding the action they can take. In the words of a 17-year-old girl, “Any action I take against Eve-Teasers further instigates them.” Research shows that girls between the age group 15-25 are more prone to Eve-Teasing in our country. In fact, about 8 out of 10 girls interviewed by the UdaipurTimes team claim they are Eve-Teased on a regular basis. Now that’s shocking, isn’t it? Here’s another shocking fact – The malpractice of Eve Teasing is declared illegal by Indian law! A man found guilty of making a female the target of obscene gestures, remarks or songs and recitations can be imprisoned for a maximum of three months under Section 298(A) and (B) of the Indian Penal Code. Eve-Teasing, therefore, is more than just a social evil. It is an illegal activity! As good citizens of this city, it is our job to ensure that the women of Udaipur do not become victims of such misdemeanor. Taking action against Eve-Teasers is a must. Here’s how you can help: 1. If you constantly face the problem of Eve-Teasing, it is crucial that you go and complain. After all, Eve-Teasing is a punishable offence. Letting Eve-Teasers off the hook is the equivalent of giving them permission to continue committing the crime. 2. Raising awareness about women’s rights would prove to be of great help. This could be done by addressing the issue of Eve-Teasing at places such as schools and offices. 3. This one is my personal favorite. Write a letter to the authorities on how little action is being taken to curb Eve-Teasing. Each letter is a step further in attaining our ultimate goal, so don’t shy away from writing letters! Remember Udaipurites, the power to curb Eve-Teasing rests in YOUR hands. Let’s do our part to prove that Udaipur is a city in which women’s rights are safeguarded.