The Power of the Safety Pin: Indian Women's Tool Against Sexual Harassment
Women in India have been using safety pins as a tool to fight back against sexual harassment in crowded public spaces. Many women carry safety pins in their handbags or on their person, and have used them to draw blood or deter harassers. According to an online survey, 56% of women in 140 Indian cities reported being sexually harassed on public transport, but only 2% went to the police. Activists say that fear and shame embolden molesters and make the problem widespread. While there have been improvements in some cities, more needs to be done to address the issue.
