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Pinjra Tod: Crusading for liberty of women

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Hit the streets in celebration

We don’t need false protection

You can’t cage half the nation

It’s time to #PinjraTod

 

Over the last one month, the equal rights campaign, ‘Pinjra Tod’, has been gaining momentum, be it through posters, gatherings, songs, graffiti or the good old signature campaign. An autonomous collective of female students and alumni from different colleges in Delhi, ‘Pinjra Tod’, has given many a platform to voice their angst against gender-discriminatory rules in hostels and paying guest accommodations of the infamous National Capital Region.

Paying tribute to the long history of women’s and queer rights activism, these girls have moved forward in their crusade, despite criticism by status-quoists, fear of patriarchal college administration, threats by the perennially-insensitive right wing outfits and the ridiculously arbitrary restrictions on their mobility. With the ultimate aim of holding a public hearing at Jantar Mantar on the 10th of October, and submitting a petition to the Delhi Commission for Women, the collective has been steadfast in critiquing the inhuman rules- all of which are violations of basic civil rights- that are imposed on adult women by institutions and even private lodgings, all in the name of ‘protecting’ the former.

Whether it is the moral policing and violence by wardens/landlords, caps on ‘night outs’ (whereby girls can only spend a limited number of nights out of their allotted rooms, and that too only after permission is granted to them, in writing, by either their parents or their local guardians), evening/night curfews, or being locked in during ‘dangerous’ festivals like Holi, women in the capital are made to feel like infants, who neither have rights over their own bodies, nor intelligence enough to take decisions for their own selves.

None of these patriarchal rules, that are meant to keep female students ‘safe’, are based on any research/survey of practices and methods of maintaining law and order, and/or preventing crimes of a sexual nature. All these grand academic establishments are operating on the simplistic misogynist principle of ‘Vagina Causes Rape. Lock up Vagina = No Rape’, and the PGs are merely following suit. In fact, there is, in addition to the preposterous assumption of ‘safe keeping’, the other countless pathetic arguments of preserving ‘decency’, ‘culture’ and ‘tradition’- all concepts that these allegedly-intellectual institutions should know better than to accept uncritically.

With the family, the principal and the random stranger on the road, all following the same Stone Age rhetoric of caging women ‘for their own good’, the female student has nowhere to go (rather literally). Instead of being encouraged for her quest towards education, she is being punished for the mere act of existing, and ‘Pinjra Tod’ hopes to put a stop to this.

 

Image Credits: indianexpress.com

Guest Post for DU Beat by Aina Singh

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Campus Central

Peace Gong Youth Team organises street play performed by dramatics society of MAC

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rising intolerance in the society and the importance of nonviolence. The play was organised during Raahgiri, on September 27, 2015 at Connaught Place, New Delhi. The play was performed by Abhinay, the dramatics society of Maharaja Agrasen College. The Peace Gong is a national platform for children and youth to connect together and work for peace, nonviolence and sustainable development. Speaking on the efforts of the team to create awareness on the importance of nonviolence, the Peace Gong youth coordinator, Abhishek Ranjan, a first year student of the Maharaja Agrasen College said the Peace Gong was planning to bring together students of different colleges of Delhi University to propagate the message of peace, tolerance and mutual understanding.

Explaining the concept behind the play, Ankita Tomar, a 3rd year Journalism student of the Maharaja Agrasen College and the coordinator of Abhinay said, “We all know how throughout our freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi placed emphasis on the principles of nonviolence. But we are all concerned at the rising intolerance in our society where people tend to follow the path of violence at the slightest pretext. Through this play we are trying to portray that violence is no solution.”
Another Coordinator of Abhinay, Kartik Kala, a third year student pointed out that they intended to stage the play in other places in Delhi. He said, “It is important to incorporate Bapu’s teachings in one’s life and work for a compassionate world.” “What we require is a student’s movement to address issues of intolerance and mutual disrespect,” said Palak Narula, another Peace Gong youth member and a first year student of Journalism. “We have to use different forms of media to reach out to each and every member of the society to influence aggressive behaviour towards each other. As a group committed to work for peace and nonviolence, we intend to learn and use the Gandhian principles of nonviolent communication to bring change and greater understanding in the society.” Ankit Kumar, a first year student of Maharaja Agrasen College and also a Peace Gong youth member said in the coming weeks they planned totake up issues like road rage etc to address issues of rising intolerance in the society. Other members of Abhinay like Vinay Sharma, Vihaan Pathak, Neha Singh, Sahil Vashist and others expressing their concern on the rising intolerance said they hoped their medium of street plays would contribute to create some awareness on the significance of mutual respect. Image Credits: Vishal Bhandari and Abhishek Ranjan Guest Post By Abhishek Ranjan  ]]>

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DUB News

How Democratic is Nepal’s New Constitution?

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It is on observing the turmoil in Nepal that one thanks the architects of the Indian constitution for their foresight and meticulous thought. The transition from an absolute monarchy, to a nominal one, and eventually to a democracy has not been a smooth ride for Nepal, with blood being shed along the way. Nepal’s 7th constitution in 67 years was promulgated by President Ram Baran Yadav on 20th September amidst much dissent.

 Cause for dissent

The constitution of a country lays down the principles on the basis of which the nation is governed, spells out the rights and duties of its people and the safeguards against them. In a country with vast and varied diversities amongst its people, the constitution must provide for the coexistence of all pluralities. Though the constitution of Nepal celebrates the country’s transition to a secular, democratic republic from a Hindu monarchy, certain sections of the society have been alienated. Madhesis (those living in the Terai region bordering India) and Janjatis (the indigenous, tribal people) are protesting against what they claim is the arbitrary demarcation of provinces within the new federal system that divides the country into seven provinces. The Madhesis and Janjatis have also predominantly acquired citizenship through naturalization, which disqualifies them from holding positions of the head of state, head of government and constitutional bodies. Only citizens by descent are permitted to hold such posts and this is considered to be discriminatory.

What is India’s take on the new Constitution?

 India sees the new constitution as being unrepresentative of large sections of the population, that is, Madhesis and Janjatis. Besides, the violent protests of these groups have led to chaos along the open border that India shares with Nepal. This instability is a cause for concern on both sides of the border. However, Nepal’s retort is that their constitution is more considerate of minorities than India’s, since it guarantees 33 percent reservation for women.

 Nepal must look inwards and make amendments suitable to that of a regionally diverse, nascent democracy that is arising in domestic and global circumstances. Ones that are drastically different from that of the rise of the Indian democracy. Nepal is a sovereign nation, but where India’s interests and stability are threatened, India must make a point.

 The shelf life of a constitution that a large proportion of the population does not agree with can be questioned. A nation ceases to be a democracy if its people do not identify with its constitution. Imposing it by force destroys the very spirit of a democratic republic. Will Nepal see the creation of a third Constituent Assembly in 67 years?

 

Image credits: www.decchanchronicle.com

Abhinaya Harigovind

[email protected]

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Top Picks

Spending a day in Delhi: Majnu ka Tila

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Majnu ka Tila, or MKT as it is fondly called, is a Tibetan colony located near Vidhan Sabha Metro station.

A rickshaw ride to Majnu ka Tila is the most feasible and hastle free. A beautiful overhead walking bridge welcomes you with colourful flags, building the expectation of a ‘miny Tibet’ within Delhi. Don’t let the narrow austere alley confuse you. One must be patient and soldier through this lane because the most exciting network of rich alleys awaits!

Majnu ka Tila is a remedy from the often exhausting energy of Delhi and replaces it with the monastic spirit of Tibet. Here are some of my favourite things about MKT, now yours to explore:

1. Laphing, the prettier sibling of momos: It is about time that we stop feeling so patriotic about the momos at North Campus. The beautifully made and spiced Tibetan Laphing is a very strong competitor of our beloved staple food. This is probably the main reason why I shun every plan and head towards my favourite Laphing point opposite Rigo House at Majnu ka Tila instead! It’s very hard to go back to the plain old momos once you’ve had a taste of this beauty.

2. Shopping for all that’s ‘in’: If you’re in awe of the collection of clothes at Kamla Nagar, say hello to your new paradise. Even on your 57th visit to Majnu ka Tila, you will still be as excited as you were the first time.

From shoe stores, to souvenir shops everything is dangerous for your pocket money, because at Majnu ka Tila, you will just want to add everything to your wardrobe.

3. Restaurants galore: If you are looking for an alternative to Hudson Lane and Kamla Nagar, Majnu ka Tila is the answer. If you are not looking for an alternative, you must definitely bless your delusional heart with a visit.

Majnu

The comfortably beautiful Ama’s Cafe and Restaurant, The Asian Kitchen House, and Dolma House, to name a few are places to fulfill your “food-porn” goals. Tibetan cuisine is undoubtedly one of the best that I have ever had.

(Do not forget to try the Mud Cake at Ama’s cafe, especially after the Laphing.)

4. The colony and the people: I have always felt safe and at peace in Majnu ka Tila. After a year of experience, I think I can explain why. Since the place is resided in by Tibetans of all ages, the place feels like a big family. You can’t help but feel at home here. It feels wonderful to greet the elders and have a playful conversation with the kids.

I am not a Tibetan, and their culture is not very similar to mine, but I feel a sense of attachment and belonging to this place. It seems like a home away from home for some reason. If you are fed up with the fast paced and monotonous life too, give yourself an opportunity to refill your drained spirits with the simplicity and warmth of this place.

Image credits: Haidam Zeme and budgettraveller.org

Tooba Towfiq
[email protected]

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Biblio

Book Review: Hurry Om Hari by Parul Tyagi

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Hurry Om Hari

If someone asks you today to choose between a love and an arranged marriage- which one would you prefer? Those who say that they prefer the latter, they’d be lying to themselves if they admit to never having secretly wished for love to enter their life. There’s a difference between what one ‘wishes’ for and what one ‘wants’. Therefore, while some may simply wish for a love marriage, they may also consider ‘wanting’ an arranged marriage in the future or vice versa.

Arranged marriages garner much apprehension in today’s times. Parul Tyagi steps in and breaks new ground by showcasing an evolving process of a modern arranged marriage through her second novel- Hurry Om Hari.

The story revolves around two extremely likeable and endearing characters- Om, (the groom-to-be) a charming, good looking lawyer and Hari, (the bride-to-be), an effortless beauty-with-brains hockey player. The two of them are betrothed by a perfect chattis guna match of astrological calculations.

More than a love story, it’s a journey of how these two people, who are brought together by their families and bound by societal expectations, develop a strong connection, unbreakable by norms and inseparable by hearts even while they stay apart. So much so, that they postpone their wedding until they accomplish their personal ambitions, irrespective of how long it takes. The novel chronicles their journey of self-development and the further strengthening of their bond. Topped with the occasional saas-bahu gossip, it’s a perfect blend.

The author through her exceptional storytelling has kept the story true to the real world with aspects of Indian families and traditions infused in the story perfectly. There is a unique sense of charm in every chapter, compelling you to stay glued to the book all the way till the end, and without you feeling disconnected with the bigger plot.

So go ahead and read it! I guarantee you’ll fall in love with it, and just like me, feel the impact of the changed views of all kinds of love for everyone around us in this world as well.

Hurry Om Hari has been published by Half Baked Beans.

Shagun Marwah

[email protected]

 

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Bazinga

Bazinga: DU introduces compulsory sex education courses in line with Indian sanskaars

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In one of its most revolutionary reforms till date, Delhi University has decided to introduce a compulsory sex education course from next year. In order to not upset parents and politicians with the “s” word and to respect Indian culture, the course will be called Hindi Sanskaars 101 and the curriculum will include texts on how to stay away from temptation and how to find the perfect heterosexual mate from your caste. Supplementary chapters on Chinese food and its effect on rape culture and the ill effects of live-in relationships for women in particular will be included. Though the entire course has not been disclosed yet, extensive beating about the bush, pun intended, is to be expectedwith diagrammatic discussion on the reproductive systems of plants.

Whether it will be in the form of a qualifying, allied or credit course is yet to be decided by the administration but it has been declared that there will be a 75 mark theoretical paper and 25 marks worth of internal assessment. “Delhi University has always been a very liberal and progressive university. It is time to accept that youngsters of today are very modern and it is important for us tomake them aware of and prepared for the consequences of wearing shorts”, said an abstaining member of the administration, Pyaare Hilaake.

Contrary to the implementation of the FYUP or the CBCS, the initial response from student and teacher bodies has by and large been positive. A member of a student body, who has previously participated in the outrage against the Kiss of Love movement welcomed the new course and said, “Students need to be made to realise that sex is impure and only married couples can partake in this sin without compromising on our values. Personal liberty and consent have no place in our culture.”

Disclaimer: Bazinga is DU Beat’s weekly column of almost believable fake news. We firmly believe sex education should be made mandatory for youngsters, not Hindi Sanskaars 101, but the kind that talks about contraception and safety.

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Bazinga

Bazinga: Candidate’s biceps grow 6 inches from shaking too many hands

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It is well known that elections in the Delhi University leave deep environmental impact in colleges. In a bizarre turn of events, we’ve been introduced to a different impact as well this time. Mast Dola, a candidate for the post of a Central Councillor from an off-campus college, realised his biceps have beefed up when he finally went to the gym after losing the elections that involved a lot of handshakes.

“I love shaking,” he said. “Sometimes they would tell me they don’t want to shake my hand but I would shake their hand anyway. I thought that’s what wins you elections”. Dola said he did feel a little stiff but didn’t realise the extent of the impact until he measured it. “I biceps grew by 6 inches. My parents were shocked. My gym trainers have introduced a special package in the gym now – they call it the ‘DUSU package’. It’s only available for DU students,” he said.

Dola has now moved on in life from the loss in the elections. “I may have lost the elections but I won at life,” he said. He is doing public speaking sessions these days and is also known to be finishing his autobiography called ‘6 inches’.

Disclaimer: Believe Bazinga only at your own risk!

Image Credits: niticentral.com

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Jesus and Mary College

Team from St. Stephen’s and Ramjas wins big at Comquest 2015 at Jesus and Mary College

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The Commerce department of Jesus and Mary College (JMC) and Curiosus, the English Quiz Society of JMC in collaboration with Jagganath Institute of Management Studies, Kalkaji (JIMS) organised the Annual Business Management Quiz – Comquest 2015 on the 23rd of September. With Quiz Craft Global as their knowledge partners, the event had Mr. Adittya Nath Mubayi as the Quiz Master.

Comquest 2015 JMC

 

Participation in teams of one or two, from both Graduate and Post Graduate students was allowed. The quiz was attended by 300 teams. Among the eminent faculty, Chairperson, Director General and Director of JIMS were present, along with the Quiz Coordinators of both the colleges. The event began with the Welcome address by the principal, Sr. Marina John. A keynote address by the Chairperson, Dr. Amit Gupta followed.

The quiz consisted of two rounds, 300 teams took part in the elimination round, consisting of 25 business oriented questions. Out of 300, only 6 teams that managed to correctly recognise the most number of logos and brands correctly and answer the MCQs were selected for the final quiz round. The final round was divided into 6 levels that included clue based points system. The winning team consisted of Apratim Chandra Singh from St. Stephens College and Tushar Anand from Ramjas College. Sreshth Shah and Abhimanyu Bhadauria from Amity University  came second whereas the third prize went to Mukul Marodia from Ashoka University and Viraj Morabia from Mithibai College, Mumbai.

The other three qualifying teams consisted of Samridh Kudesia from Ashoka University and Pranshu Agarwal from Acharya Narendra Dev College, Ashhad Qasmi from Keshav Mahavidyalaya and Shiv Shanker Gaurav from Amity University, Anurag Gupta from Indian School of Business and Finance and Tanmay Garg from Sri Guru Gobind Singh College of Commerce.

The winning teams received a cash prize of Rs 20,000, Rs 10,000 and Rs 5,000 respectively. The prize was presented by Dr Satish Seth, Director General and JK Batra, Director of JIMS Kalkaji. Comquest 2015 ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Preeti Singh of JIMS.

The results of all the events are:

Sudoku
1 Sachin Sharma STGS
2 Neha Garg – Daulat Ram College

Red letter Quiz
1 Chirag, Sajal and Yogi – Sri Aurobindo College
2 Abhishek (Hansraj) Rohini(JMC)
3 Naman Varun and Shubham- KMV

Faking the Research
1 Saksham dewan- SSCBS Vaibhav gupta-SGGSCC
2 Priyanka and Ayushi – SVC

Mictionary
1 Prashant, Abhijeet and Pankaj- ARSD
2 shared by
Mukund, Devika and Akhil – SSCBS
Bhavana, Giselle and Apoorva – JMC

Decoding
1 Bhavya, Avni, Ishpreet and Aarti – JMC
2 Abhishek(Hansraj) Rohini (JMC)
3 Sheetij, Harshit and Giriraj – KMV

 

Photography credits: Preeti Sridhar from JMC

Lovleen Kaur

[email protected]

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