I no longer use buses as they are crowded

Varsha Kadam, 50, a central government officer says that she no longer use buses as they are crowded.

Varsha Kadam, 50, central government officer

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I alter my body language when I step out or take public transport. For instance, while travelling alone in an autorickshaw, I sit in the centre and make sure I hold the handles of my bag with both hands and then fold the bag over.

I also avoid talking on the phone unless it is really urgent, as there are chances a robber could snatch my phone. On the road, I keep my bags close to my body and use them to cover my chest. I also text my daughter at regular intervals to find out whether she is returning home late and if a friend will drop her home.

I have stopped using city buses as they are crowded.

Once, while I was stepping down from a railway foot overbridge, a man rubbed against me. I instinctively hit him. Such incidents have happened quite a few times and I have always reacted either by hitting or shouting at the culprit.

However, I have now stopped reacting physically or even arguing as I want to avoid a situation that can get me into more trouble.

I am scared as I have heard many cases where such men have taken revenge by attacking the victim with chemicals, or assaulting them.

I give my daughter the same advice.