So there is a new mobile app in India called Safetipin that allows people to report sexual harassment with the simple touch of an icon. It sounds like it's being piloted by female students at Jamia Millia Islamia (University). Interesting idea, but as a practical matter, how does it work logistically, and what does it accomplish? Perhaps the thinking is that it will increase the rate of reporting because people will be able to report in privacy and not face the fear or shame of talking to someone face to face? But eventually, they would still have to talk to someone about it, right? During an investigation? And who would they be reporting it to, and what would that person or entity do about it?
It also allows witnesses to report harassment or assaults, but if a criminal assault occurred, then wouldn't the witnesses just call the police? Isn't that who would be receiving the mobile app reports in the first place? I don't know, I'm kinda confused by this. It does look like the app provides a variety of neighborhood and community information and resources, which could be helpful, especially if a victim of harassment was afraid to ask someone for help. Maybe they're onto something! Perhaps this is just a desperate plea for better P.R. in India after all the recent rape debacles. If it proves effective though, I wonder if such an app will make its way to the U.S. and elsewhere.
Mobile App to Help Girls Report Sexual Harassment - Jagran Post
Mobile App to Help Girls Facing Sexual Threats - DNA India
Ah, okay, this article below says a similar app was already launched in New York 10-12 days earlier:
Now, Smartphone App to Report Sexual Harassment - The Indian Express
And here is the scoop on the American app now available in New York City only, called Hollaback, which was released by City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, as part of her campaign for mayor:
Christine Quinn unveils Smartphone App Hollaback That Allows Sexual Harassment Victims to Report Incidents - New York Daily News
This article says the reports go to the City Council and the mayor. It will be interesting to see if these apps actually increase the rate of reporting, the rate of accountability, or reduce or prevent harassment in the future.
