“When fear’s dark weight holds voices still,
And dreams seem bent by forceful will,
Yet light breaks through as voices stand
Together, stronger, hand in hand.”

Today, fear lingers on our streets but imagine a world where every young woman walks tall, free to chase her dreams without looking over her shoulder. This petition is our step toward that safer tomorrow.

1. Recent incidents like the shocking case of sexual assault in the city of Kolkata have highlighted the deep-rooted issues women continue to face in modern India. The brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata sent shockwaves throughout the nation, bringing attention to serious issues surrounding women’s safety.
2. The Times of India reported that Uttar Pradesh registered over 1,200 complaints of physical harassment between 2019 and 2023.
3. In the Indian context, 81% of women face some form of sexual harassment or assault at least once in their lifetime, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Centre.
4. According to UNICEF, globally, approximately 8 women experience some form of sexual violence every minute.
   These alarming statistics and recent tragedies highlight the harsh reality of the evil that exists in our world. However, we have the power to create change.

Aim: In light of the increasing harassment cases faced by women and girls, it is crucial to equip them with skills to protect themselves. Self-defense training can empower women and girls by boosting their confidence, teaching them how to handle dangerous situations, and, ultimately, making our communities safer. By making self-defense training mandatory in schools, especially for girls aged 12-18, they will be:

- Better prepared to protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations.
- More empowered, with enhanced self-esteem and confidence.
- Able to learn an important life skill, which is about physical protection and mental and emotional strength.
- Able to create an impact on the community, creating a culture of safety and resilience.

By signing this petition, we support providing our youth with the tools they need to protect themselves and thrive in a safe environment. Your support is vital for creating a safer, more inclusive society. Together, we can take this small but significant step toward empowering the women and girls in our community.