New Delhi, July 30 (IANS) The virtual world was Saturday abuzz with last minute invitations, even as preparations were in full swing for the capital’s first Slut Walk or ‘Besharmi Morcha’ Sunday — a campaign to protest the random use of the word ‘slut’ and sexual violence against women.
The official page of the campaign on Facebook, with over 1,450 members, had the message loud and clear: ‘All set for tomorrow.’
While the route of the walk has been shortened and the event will be a toned-down version of its international counterpart, the organisers have asked supporters to get creative and make their own slogans.
‘Make your own slogans, bring colourful placards to the walk. Say what you want,’ posted Umang Sabharwal, the organiser.
Slut Walks have become a global phenomenon to protest against sexual violence after a police officer in Toronto caused outrage by stating in a speech to university students that women should avoid ‘dressing like sluts’ to avoid being victimised.
‘We have shortened our initial route and are now starting the walk from the Free Church to YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association) all the way to Jantar Mantar (in central Delhi). We have taken permission from the Delhi Police,’ Mishika Singh, one of the organisers, told IANS.
Slut Walks across the globe see women dress in skimpy clothing to challenge the mindset that victims of sexual violence should be blamed for the assault on them.
‘The name Besharmi Morcha was keeping in mind the Indian target audience,’ added Singh.
The supporters seemed excited to make the event a colourful one. The walk starts at 10.30 a.m. and ends at 12.30 p.m.
‘Countdown starts! Sunday we will make our point clear. Full support to slut walk,’ wrote one of the supporters Alexander Will.
