PRAGOTI

 On 3 September 2012, the Lok Sabha passed the ‘Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Bill, 2010’, a full fifteen years after the Supreme Court (1997 Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan). The Vishakha judgement was revolutionary in mandating the formation of committees against sexual harassment in all workplaces and placing upon the employer the responsibility of providing an environment free of sexual harassment, hostility and intimidation for women. In the Lok Sabha, the Bill was passed without any discussion, and will now be placed before the Rajya Sabha. This Bill must be thoroughly debated, as there are a number of provisions that need revision.

The ongoing spate of ‘Honour’ killings in the country is continuing to outrage all democratic minded people. The Khap Panchayats are invoking ‘tradition’ and ‘customs’ to justify their crimes. They have gathered ranks to demand a ban on ‘sagotra’ and ‘bhai-chara’ marriages. Underlying this demand is their historic antipathy towards granting property rights to women in these regions.

Since Comrade Jyoti Basu’s death, scores of people have tried to come to terms with his unique role, legacy and stature. Jyotirmoy has tried to do the same, but the attempt is not merely disappointing but mostly tongue-in-cheek.