Singer Chinmayi Slams Male Solidarity with Molesters

Male solidarity often favors molesters over victims, a sentiment voiced by singer Chinmayi Sripada. She spoke at the launch of the 'Stand With Her' campaign, a year-long initiative by the Telangana police's Women Safety Wing to encourage men to support women. Chinmayi shared her experience during the #MeToo movement, where she and others accused a powerful lyricist, only to face industry backlash and bans while the accused received widespread support.

She noted that this lack of support extends to men, with many abuse survivors confiding in her without anyone else to turn to. Women who voice social concerns online, like Chinmayi, are subjected to extreme profanity, personal attacks, and even wishes of death upon their children. Panellists, including police and film industry figures, stressed the importance of listening to women and speaking against disrespectful jokes.

Feminist activist Tejaswini Madabhushi reflected on past complicity, recalling how she once laughed at a demeaning comment, illustrating how societal respect for women is conditional. The discussion emphasized changing mindsets and fostering respect for women from childhood, with playback singer Vedala Hemachandra advising women to trust their instincts and seek support when feeling unsafe.