WHAT OUR READERS SAY The photograph taken near the water boosting station in Sector 8, Panchkula, reveals the inside story of Panchkula Traffic Police. Mind you, these topsy-turvy barriers were ostensibly deployed here to regulate the movement of the vehicular traffic when some religious function was recently organised by some resident living nearby. But traffic cops in the city seem to have forgotten to put these barriers back at the spots where the same may be most needed. How come? Kumar Gupt, Panchkula Provide space in markets Illegal encroachments by shopkeepers and vendors in the market corridors have left little space for the movement of visitors. Shastri market is so congested that if any casualty takes place, residents will not find any space to rush and save their lives. The government must take strict action to remove encroachments and take concrete steps to make markets congestion-free. Abhilasha Gupta, Mohali Zero tolerance to crime against women, children Violence against women and children is a grave public health concern. Though violence is a threat to everyone, women and children are particularly susceptible to victimisation because their rights are often overlooked and they often lack appropriate means of protection. This kind of violence is an extreme manifestation of gender inequality. The effects of violence can remain with women and children for a lifetime and can pass from one generation to another. Studies show that children who have witnessed, or been subjected to violence, are more likely to become victims or abusers themselves. In the past decade, research has documented the growing magnitude of such violence, but gaps in the data still remain. Victims of violence have fear of stigmatisation or societal condemnation and thus often hesitate to report crimes. When it comes to preventing violence, we must address the root causes of gender inequality and discrimination. Evidence shows that the gender gap is greater in the status of women's health, participation in economy, education levels and representation in politics. Protection of women and children in our country cannot be ensured with just having legislation and guidelines. We as a country need to commit to cultivate a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women and children. Sanjay Chopra, Mohali What our readers say Is a civic issue bothering you? Are you agitated over the lack of concern? Is there something heartening that you feel needs to be highlighted? Or a picture which in your opinion ought to be seen by many, and not just you? ChandigarhTribune invites its readers to have their say. Please email at:haveyoursay@tribunemail.com

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