Activists and representatives of various organizations undertook a jatha in Hassan on Saturday. | Photo credit: PRAKASH HASSAN
Well-known writer and poet Prof. Vinaya Okkunda emphasized the need to expand feminist ideology to be more inclusive of men and ensure that no man commits atrocities against women.
Speaking at a seminar organized as part of the International Women’s Day in Hassan, Ms. Okkunda said many renowned feminists believe that society cannot find answers to the many problems women face if feminism remains women-centric. “The education system has failed to help men understand that committing atrocities against women is a crime. We need to find answers in the way we raise our sons. Our sons need to realize that they are also ordinary human beings, just like their female counterparts,” she said.
“As every parent hopes that their daughter will not become a victim of molestation or atrocity, we must ensure that our sons do not become violent or commit crimes against women,” she said, highlighting the increasing number of crimes against women around the world.
BN Nandini, Hassan Lokayukta SP, emphasized the need for education and awareness among both men and women to stop crimes against women. “There are cases where family members support male family members who commit crimes against women. Through education and awareness, we need to change the mindset with which men treat women,” she said.
KV Stanley, co-founder of Odanadi Seva Samsthe in Mysuru, spoke about the women who have gone missing and opined that a corrupt system is to blame for crimes against women. Referring to a recent operation carried out by his organization with the help of the Hassan police, he mentioned that he found a paper containing a list of officers who regularly received money from a place where women forced into the flesh trade were rescued. “The person in charge of that place clearly documented who he paid regularly. I have sent a copy to Police Inspector Hassan for further action. This shows how big a role the corrupt system plays in harassing women,” he said.
The seminar was organized by Karnataka Mahila Dourjanya Virodhi Okkuta, a national organization working for women, as part of a two-day International Women’s Day event. Women representatives from various parts of the state participated in the jatha, discussions and seminars which concluded on Sunday.
Published – March 8, 2026 8:13 PM IST
