After popular comedian and cyclist Vasu Primlani was assaulted by an autorickshaw driver in East Delhi, India, six cycling groups held a protest cycle ride last weekend called Take Delhi Back. At least 300 people cycled from India Gate to the Biodiversity Park to protest street harassment.
“Ela Ghosh of Spinlife – a cyclists’ group in Gurgaon – says, ‘Women face such problems daily – on buses, in the Metro, on the roads, in colleges. Often people just see it happening, some even enjoy it, but hardly anyone comes forward to help. We need to create awareness on this issue so that no woman has to fight a lonely battle against hooligans.’
Anand Sinha of another such group Pedal Yatri says, ‘We totally understand what Vasu went through because our women members are often teased even on cycling tours. They are stared at, commented upon and even stoned. Therefore, we thought of extending our support to Vasu and the cause of protecting women in public places.'”
At the end of the ride, the Gurgaon Drum Circle performed and Vasu gave a speech.
She said, “When men and women work together, even cycle together on the roads, it gives out the message that we are equal. It is important to convey this because often men who molest and rape have seen women in inferior roles only. Other than that, we want men to understand that masculinity lies not in dominating women, but in protecting them. We are hopeful that our small initiative will help in riding home the point.”
Read about a similar event that happened in Egypt last weekend and if you’re in Washington, D.C. RSVP for Collective Action for Safe Spaces‘ cycling event on Sat., Oct. 19!
