On Thursday, dignitaries launch a debate competition at the Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University in Ballari. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Privacy has emerged as one of the biggest challenges of today’s technology-driven era, said Robert Jose, head of the Department of English at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University.
He spoke on Thursday after the launch of a debate competition organized by the University’s Internal Grievance Committee at the Dr. Auditorium. BR Ambedkar at the Ballari campus.
Prof. Jose said rapid technological advances, especially the use of artificial intelligence, have created situations where individuals are increasingly vulnerable to the misuse of personal information.
While women have made significant progress in various fields thanks to the fight for gender equality, society now needs a “male revolution”, a change in attitudes among men, to ensure real equality and respect, he said.
Arun Kumar Lagashetti of the Department of Chemistry told the gathering that India has strong legal frameworks to protect women, but the laws themselves are insufficient.
“There is an urgent need to cultivate a culture of respect for women in society,” he said.
The program also organized a debate on the effectiveness of cyber security mechanisms in strengthening the implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act in workplaces.
Participants discussed the role of digital safeguards, institutional mechanisms and awareness in preventing workplace harassment.
Head of the Department of Physics, Udayakumar Khadke, served as the judge for the debate.
Internal Grievance Committee Director and Program Coordinator Gauri Manik Manasa gave opening remarks outlining the goals of the event and the importance of dialogue on contemporary issues related to gender and technology.
Medhavini Katti presented the Sexual Harassment Prevention Pledge, reaffirming the University’s commitment to providing a safe and inclusive academic environment.
Deans of various faculties, heads of departments, teaching and non-teaching staff, researchers and students were present.
Published – 29 Jan 2026 18:36 IST
