Clear Lines or Grey Matters?

Why is it that when we say the words harassment, allegation, or assault, we say it in hushed tones? We speak of living in a modern world, and scream gender equality when required, but when it comes to actually protecting the safety and security of those around us, it we do so silently, whispering so that no one hears us. That is precisely the problem when it comes to harassment, allegation and assault – no one hears us. Not only women, but even men, if someone makes you uncomfortable, isn’t it your right to speak up and stand for yourselves?
Normalized or ostracized, understanding or misunderstanding, sober or drunk- no means no, discomfort means discomfort, and at the end of the day, harassment means harassment. Irrespective of your gender, caste, class, or creed, no human being is allowed to violate your personal space or privacy.
It’s disheartening and extremely unfortunate that harassers (and yes there’s no other way of putting it), walk freely without any consequences. No, “cancelling” them or shunning them from social groups is not enough of a consequence, not a justified response to people who violated the safety of others. It is definitely a step towards acting about such incidents, but more needs to be done. We all, men or women, need to learn to speak up and actually fight against such individuals. If you do not believe in administrative help, then seek the help of your friends and family. Even a leap of faith in the legal system will be appreciated – but do something about it. File a POSH complaint, speak to your representatives, and take active action against such individuals. Incidents of sexual assault do not deserve second chances. The line is not foggy, the matter isn’t grey- matters of sexual harassment are in fact crystal clear and deserve no compromise, no forgiveness, and no lenience. Make sure the punishment fits the crime, and definitely be careful about accusing someone since the crime here is a serious one. It is important to be absolutely sure, but if you are, then it is just as important to speak up and take a stand.
To quote Martin Luther King Jr., “our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”. Your safety, your security, and your life matters. So let’s not let things go, let’s not keep silent, and let’s fight for our basic rights as human beings. Some things are not okay, some actions are unforgivable, some matters are not grey, and some lines are crystal clear- and it starts with anything that any violator has done that has ever put you in an uncomfortable position that can/will/does compromise your personal safety and boundaries.