Amid much hype, the 'Slutwalk', held in the heart of the national capital, saw active attendance of scores of activists and locals from all walks of life, who urged the society to change the attitude of judging women based on their attire.
Organised by the 'Besharmi Morcha', a civil society forum working against sexual violence, the movement aimed at putting forth a serious message-no matter what the attire, sexual assault is unjustified.
Shouting slogans and raising posters and placards, activists vented their ire at the common chauvinistic prejudice that aims to allegedly justify sexual aggregation by blaming the action on 'provocatory dresses worn by the victim.
Extending solidarity with the cause, certain activists said the campaign could help dispel attitudes and double standards about sexual assault.
"We are organising a protest against the sick mindset of the society that decides to blame women rather than perpetrators of the crime," said Neha Sharma, an activist from the Besharmi Morcha.
'Slutwalk', in both name and concept, is an opportunity for people to stand together against sexual violence and rights of women.
The seemingly provocative name of the movement emerged from the belief of certain individuals that women can avoid sexual assault by not dressing like a 'slut'.
The name, according to several activists, is a quick way to break the ice and open a dialogue about issues surrounding sexual assault.
"The name achieves its purpose. We are talking about it, we are questioning it, and it has raised eyebrows and that is the reason we all are here. Had that not happened, this cause, or this walk would also have been like any other movement that happens and nobody cares about. So, yes, the Besharmi Morcha'sSlutwalk Delhi chapter has raised eyebrows and today is the day we need to look beyond the name," said Stuti, a radio jockey.
"You have to look at the cause. The fact that we are here and any thinking individual would agree to the fact that no matter how a girl is dressed, it has nothing to do with the kind of treatment that is meted out to her. It is high time we listen to that," she added.
Many enthusiastic college students also participated in the highly charged protest, voicing their concerns despite claiming to be aware that merely one campaign 'would not change the attitudes and perceptions of the masses.'
"It is not safe to be on the streets of Delhi after dark. Even 8 o'clock is not a good time to get out. I know even through this walk, mindsets will not change immediately, but at least something is better than nothing. I am here to give my views and so are my friends," said Anchal Sabharwal, a college student.
The number of registered rape cases in India has increased almost manifold in the past decades, according to theNational Crime Records Bureau.
Also, despite growing awareness, most victims fear to report the crime due to many factors, including the 'shame' associated with the act in often traditional and conservative communities that prize virginity as a virtue.
The flimsy defence of 'provocation by the victim' has also come to light in a string of rape cases in the past, and shockingly, has even caused the burden of proof to shift from the accused to the victim in courts, claim women activists.
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