Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Apr 16: Scores of social activists, students, professionals and other concerned citizens gathered near DC's office here on Monday April 16 to participate in the candlelight vigil held to condemn the incidents of rape and other crimes against women, especially the Kathua, Unnao and Surat cases.

The candlelight vigil was symbolically launched by Kusumavathi and Chandappa, parents of Sowjanya who was raped and murdered in Beltangady in 2012.

Addressing the gathering, renowned rationalist Narendra Nayak said, "The rape and brutal murder of an 8-year-old at Kathua is a shameful act and a blemish on our country. We should not be silent about it anymore and stand against it. When a girl gets raped, her dress and behavior are questioned, and they say those are invitation to rape. If modern dressing provokes you, what about rapes and murders of women in burkha and saree?

"First and foremost, a son should be taught to respect women and not treat them as objects. He should be taught to treat men and women equally. Five years ago, Sowjanya was raped and murdered in Dharmasthala, but still justice has not been done. Mindset towards women needs to change. We should never hesitate when it comes to raising our voice. When thousands of voices are raised, there will be a sense of fear among guilty politicians and perverts," he said.

Sowjanya's mother said, "Five years ago my daughter was brutally raped and killed, even today I am fighting for justice and I will continue until I get justice. I do not have any affiliation to any party, religion, caste - for me all are equal. I request you to support me and stand with me."

Mohammed Kunhi said, "Our country is famous and respected globally for its culture, tradition and values. It is unfortunate that today our country has been recognized for rapes and murders, which is a tragedy. It is horrifying to see how these rapists are being shielded by some holding the national flag. We should persistently protest and get these rapists strict punishment and make the law even stricter."

Among those present were social activists Vidya Dinker, Suhail Kandak and others.