Addressing harassment during the MCO

If you experience harassment during the MCO, seek help. If you feel unsafe, go to the police. Photo: 123rf

Even during a pandemic, when movement is restricted and people told to stay home, women are coming forward to report harassment. “No one is allowed to sexually harass another person, not even during this time. Know your rights. Report such incidents to the service providers, the police or call NGOs. To protect yourself, practise social distancing, ” said the All Women’s Action Society (Awam) in a statement released recently. The women’s NGO was responding to a couple of alleged harassment cases that have surfaced during the MCO, involving encounters with delivery men.

“Get (the delivery riders or drivers) to leave the food package at the gate and leave. Have an ‘S’ hook on your gate so they can hang items there. Have someone go with you when you collect items. Collect evidence if any and if you can.