4 pieces of practical advice that can keep you safe in a world of misogynist men

It's a man's world out there. After all, if a woman can't step out of her house without knowing whether she'll come back home with her dignity intact, what else can you say about the society we live in?

For once and for all, let's admit it: Indian society is terribly patriarchal. Men just can't keep it in their pants, mostly because they think it's okay to touch any woman out there in any way they deem appropriate. And if the woman resists--then well, anything can happen. Right from acid attacks to rape to murder.

Yes, all this needs to change. And we have to be the change we want to witness in the society. So, it's about time we raised our voices. However, changes don't happen overnight.

While we wait for our country to become a land that is safe for all women, we can't stop stepping out, living a normal life, or exercising our goddamn basic right to freedom. What we can do, however, is take certain precautions to keep ourselves safe. Because you know what, it's only when you're safe that you can make a difference. 

So here, some pragmatic advice so that you can fight the good fight as a champion, and not a victim.

1. Don't Risk Your Safety Just to Prove a Point
You know how they say you must dress according to the situation. Well, as unfortunate as it is, sometimes dressing conservatively can actually keep you safe.

The whole conjecture over being appropriately dressed is controversial. So, just to clarify, when an authority figure attributes the increase in rapes to the way women dress--it makes our blood boil, and how!  

We firmly believe the fault lies only and solely in the mindsets of men, who think committing such heinous crimes are okay. So wear whatever the f**k you want to in life. After all, that 80-year old, saree-clad woman wasn't 'provocatively' dressed when she was brutally raped in her village.

However, when you know you're going to be out drinking at night, and might have to make your way home on your own--carry a shrug to wear over that corset before you get into the Uber; wear jeans before you go looking for an auto.

While doing this, you're not covering up out of shame--you're doing this because you're smart and you know it.

2. Drink to Your Heart's Content, But Make Sure Intoxication Doesn't Spell Danger
Vodka, rum, beer, tequila--whatever the poison of your choice might be, it is your choice. And you have the full right to drink, make merry, and have fun with your pals.  But when the time comes to go home, make sure you're you have someone sober by your side. Cabs are fine, and so are other modes of public transportation--but passing out in the backseat, while a stranger is behind the steering wheel is not.

If it's really late and you have no company, then stay over at a friend's house. We know you're a responsible adult, but let's face it: booze makes the smartest of women (and men) falter. Not to mention, it dims your reflexes and slows down the central processing unit, which is your brain.

3. Be Handsy With Your Partner, But Pick the Right Place
Before you pick up your virtual belans, and beat us up: just hear us out. Kiss your partner wherever, whenever--but just remember, that not everyone is as open-minded as you are.

Sure, your friends will understand. And maybe that cabbie will not look in the rear-view mirror out of embarrassment. But there's also a chance, that you might come across a misogynist who thinks just because you are allowing your partner to kiss you, it's okay if he does it too.

You're allowed to shower your love on your partner,  but if you feel that it is attracting unwanted attention, then maybe it is sensible to stop.  Yes, you shouldn't give a damn about what those lame-ass bystanders think; but there's not much that you and your partner can do if a whole bunch of cheapsters decide to attack you now, can you?

4. There is Difference Between Being Brave and Being Smart
Different situations call for different course of action. If you find someone following or stalking you, especially when you are alone--verbally berating him may not be the right thing to do. It's not just about provoking the pervert, but by going on a verbal tirade--instead of finding a safe haven and contacting the authorities--you're giving him a chance to attack you. 

Don't think of walking away or ignoring the creep as a sign of fear or weakness. Certain things don't deserve your reaction, especially when it is your safety at risk.