Women are learning self-defence as increased reports of violence have been reported.
What’s it about? In the city, there are few initiatives launched to equip women physically, develop their mental strength, and educate them on their legal rights. Martial arts expert Marieen Vijay has been conducting self-defence classes for women and teenagers and offers free sessions on the first Sunday of each month. There’s also PENN (Protection & Empowerment of Naree), launched in 2020.
- Marieen begins by teaching women how to stand and walk in a public space to present themselves as strong persons. She also teaches them how to be alert and aware of their surroundings.
- At PENN, they teach you to develop mental resilience and inform women about the support system available to them. They’re currently training 1,200 students of Guru Nanak College.
Education and empowerment: On November 25, to mark International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women, PENN is conducting a programme for Guru Nanak College students. Advocate Pushkala Sivakumar will talk about sexual harassment and their legal rights. Vannia Perumal from Women and Child Safety will talk about police support systems.