By Priya Varadarajan
Everyday citizens such as street vendors who occupy certain public spaces for a prolonged period of time can help diffuse violence perpetrated against womxn in that space. These unlikely allies tend not to intervene for reasons ranging from being busy, a lack of concern, to the fear of repercussions of intervention, lack of awareness on the best course of intervention and so on. When these allies are aware of their role as active bystanders, they are emboldened with the necessary skills to be able to intervene effectively. Their knowledge of the surroundings equips them in proactively looking out for womxn and their safety.