Bengaluru jogger’s harassment allegation sparks debate on women’s safety

A Bengaluru jogger alleged harassment by minors at Avalahalli Forest, sparking debate on women’s safety and need for early gender sensitization

A Bengaluru-based content creator has alleged that she was verbally harassed by a group of minors while jogging at Avalahalli Forest, drawing widespread attention to women’s safety in public spaces and the importance of early gender sensitisation.

The incident came to light after Ritika Suryavanshi shared a video on Instagram describing how three boys, estimated to be around 13 years old or younger, made crude remarks about her body as she finished a run. The video, captioned ‘harassed by kids,’ quickly gained traction online and triggered strong reactions from viewers.

Suryavanshi explained that she initially ignored the comments but later confronted the boys, questioning their behaviour and upbringing. She clarified that she chose not to record or expose the minors’ faces, stressing that her intention was to highlight the issue rather than cause lasting harm to children who still have their lives ahead of them.

The video prompted an outpouring of responses on social media, with many users expressing concern about the lack of respect and awareness among minors. Several pointed to systemic gaps in teaching values of consent and equality, while others emphasised the need for better monitoring of public recreational spaces.

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The episode has reignited discussions around safety in parks, forest trails, and jogging tracks, which are increasingly frequented by fitness enthusiasts. Experts noted that inappropriate behaviour by minors often reflects inadequate early education on respect and gender sensitivity, warning that unchecked attitudes can evolve into more serious offences later in life.

Suryavanshi, originally from Bihar, has built a career in content creation after working in Gurgaon and Dubai before relocating to Bengaluru in 2024. While no police complaint has been filed, the incident underscores the collective responsibility of families, communities, and institutions in shaping respectful behaviour and ensuring safer public spaces for women.

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