I HAVE noticed that, in some sections of the media, emphasis is put on the way women dress and not on the mental state of the men attacking them for their appearance.

Most women, especially those who are young, experience street harassment.

When it happens it can be upsetting, humiliating and degrading. But if a woman wants to be independent she has to learn to ignore it.

Catcalling, groping, lewd comments and indecent advances are some of the problems women in Pakistan have to face.

All I have to say about the men of this country is that harassment for them is a power game, all about maintaining control and asserting their masculinity.

We cover up our women and forbid them to leave the house. There are countless restrictions for women whereas men are free to do as they please and no one to answer to.

I am a girl, but you will never see me hitting the guy next door, because if I did, my character will be questioned. I will be deemed fast and marriage prospects for me will be severely restricted.

Why have we forgotten that an Islamic society teaches its sons modesty as well as daughters?

Tayyaba Tahir

Karachi

Published in Dawn March 7th , 2015

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