We’re living in a digital era currently and while there are several benefits of having access to an insane amount of information at the click of a button, it also has its downsides. It’s not uncommon for people to misuse the pictures that women share on social media and morph them. That’s also why most women make use of the privacy setting available on social media to protect themselves but come to think of it, women should not have to live in the fear of cybercriminals. But our society is known to shame women for their mere existence and in a shocking turn of events, a Tamil Nadu Women’s Commission Chief suggested that women stop using their own pictures as display photos.
Speaking at a seminar being held by the National and Tamil Nadu state women’s commissions, TN Women’s Commission member AS Kumari spoke about the initiative being taken by the Commission to raise awareness about cyberbullying as well as about matters of women’s safety in cyberspace. Pointing out that technology can be good as well as evil, AS Kumari asked women to avoid using their own pictures as display pictures so as to stop cyber criminals from misusing them. It’s shocking that a woman member of the state women’s commission who is tasked with protecting women is asking women to make changes to prevent crimes instead of focusing on the criminal. This is no different than victim shaming because it looks like the Tamil Nandu Women’s Commission chief needs to be sensitised about such matters.
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What use is a women’s commission chief who is asking women to protect themselves from cyber crimes instead of creating a safe space for women online! To make matters worse, AS Kumari also asked young girls to be careful and not fall into the trap of unknown people online and form relationships with them. She said that everyone has the right to fall in love but it is essential that one pick the right person. Of course, because we get to pick and choose who we love. And why create a safe cyberspace when you can just ask young girls to take preventive measures?
The Tamil Nadu Women’s Commission Chief AS Kumari concluded by stating that over the years, leaders like Periyar, CN Annadurai and M Karunanidhi have made laws to protect women but women are afraid of seeking help from the authorities. She also urged women to be fearless and approach the Women’s Commission for help. Sure, because from the looks of it, the woman who is asking them not to use display pictures will protect them. Very reassuring! I mean, why stop women from using display pictures when you can just stop them from using phones and cameras and being online? That literally eradicates all cyber crimes against women. Wouldn’t that be an amazing idea, ma’am?