St. Joseph’s University Holds Silent Protest Against Gender-Based Violence

St. Joseph’s University Holds Silent Protest Against Gender-Based Violence

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sept 1, 2024: In response to the recent sexual assault and murder of a Kolkata doctor and the rising incidents of gender-based violence across India, St. Joseph’s University, Shift III, organized a silent protest and candlelight vigil on August 27, 2024. The event took place on the university campus at 6:30 PM and served as a poignant tribute to victims of sexual violence.

Organized by NSS Unit 5 under the leadership of Program Officer Mr. Mahesh D.K., the protest attracted around 1,800 students and staff members. During the event, Dr. Chandni Bhambhani, Assistant Program Officer of NSS Unit 5, delivered a powerful speech highlighting the alarming statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). The NCRB reported 4,45,256 crimes against women in 2022, equating to nearly one incident every minute. Dr. Bhambhani emphasized that these numbers only reflect reported cases, indicating a much larger, unreported crisis. She urged attendees to confront the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, challenging them to continue advocating for change even after media coverage fades.

Participants expressed their solidarity by holding placards, giving speeches, and performing a skit that highlighted the normalization of sexual harassment in public spaces and the need for collective action to combat it.

The protest was also attended by university management, including Vice-Chancellor Rev. Dr. Victor Lobo SJ and Director of Shift III, Rev. Fr. Francis Pinto SJ. The event demonstrated the university community’s strong commitment to addressing gender-based violence and advocating for a safer and more just society.