I’m confused after watching this video.
This particular video is definitely different from what I have seen till now. People have started to accept the Fact that it is the attitude of the men that should change, not that of the women to stop or prevent rape. This clip is made by MARD- Men Against Rape and Discrimination campaign by Farhan Akthar. I really appreciate that, though I don’t think this should be seen as a ‘helpline’.
In spite of trying hard not to judge, considering it as a novel idea, I couldn’t help but notice certain points:
- The first man called for his friend, just to “help her”? I don’t see why she shouldn’t have panicked. Anybody would, in such a situation. Wait a sec, he called his friend, told him what he just heard and they both simply came closer to her? They definitely did not intend to help her, I dare say.
- All of a sudden, an auto-rickshaw stops and a “decent looking guy” asks her to go by that auto. And… he gives a look like i-am-the-saviour-you-have-been-praying-for. The other men also look as if they knew he would be coming. Really!?
- What if all these actually happened? Would I dare to enter into any vehicle for that matter, offered by strangers? I would only doubt a little more after seeing the smiles on their faces!
- What has it got to do with men and dogs? If all men are NOT dogs, then a few are? Dogs are supposed to be loyal and friendly. In that sense, I would agree. But still I think it wasn’t a good idea to compare “rapists” with dogs, if that’s what they meant.
So, what’s the theme? That men are supposed to protect women? I hope not. I would like to believe that their actual message was to change the attitude of men, but it somehow turned out to be this way. A good message, presented in a not so right manner.
MARD, it’s good to know that you exist. But just make sure that the idea presented is not ambiguous.