Rubab Nayeem Khan-writer&doodler
Check out her doodles in her Instagram: @rhubar4190
One day, on my way to university, a man who was on another rickshaw was ogling me, I always counter back with a death stare as a sign of disapproval. But this “gentleman” began grinning as though, I too was interested. Somehow the scowl that was locked on my forehead wasn’t ugly enough to intimidate him. As the traffic congestion cleared out, my new found fan was trying to keep pace with my rickshaw; he was also getting up from his seat and looking at me while smiling shamelessly.
By the time both our rickshaws came near Bashundhara gate, he stopped his rickshaw by the roadside. While keeping his gaze fixed on me, he stared to make a call. I too acted upon my reflex and stopped mine near the gate were the police sergeants made their rounds. When I turned around to spot the creep, he had disappeared.
Nothing happened, but this is how it starts. A smile turns into stare and soon goes to becoming something much worse. When your safety is on the line, silence is not an option. Only by raising your voice you can build a reputation and break the stigma. These incidents are no more than a mere pebble in the way; kick it aside and move on.