Noida police arrest two for asking ‘Kya Rate Legi…’ to a female journalist

In a shocking incident in Noida, two men, identified as Ashwat Pal and Vipin Singh from Muzaffarnagar district, were arrested for harassing a female journalist who was waiting for a cab. This case has brought attention to the ongoing issue of street harassment faced by women in the region.

The incident came to light when the female journalist took her X handle to share the horrifying experience, of being questioned by men in Noida ‘Kya Rate Legi…’

उत्तर प्रदेश : नोएडा में कैब का इंतजार कर रही महिला पत्रकार से 'रेट' पूछने वाले 2 लफंगे गिरफ्तार। नाम हैं अश्वत पाल और विपिन सिंह। दोनों मुजफ्फरनगर जिले के रहने वाले हैं। https://t.co/jT44IQAegZ pic.twitter.com/da6NZVbtb8

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) August 16, 2024

Harassment Near DLF Mall

The journalist, Sonal Pateria, took to Twitter to share her terrifying experiences. While waiting for a cab near DLF Mall in Sector-18, Noida, she was approached by two men on a bike. The man riding at the back made an obscene gesture and asked, "Kya rate legi?"

The incident occurred in mere seconds, leaving Pateria shocked and distressed. Despite the trauma, she managed to return home safely.

Another Incident at Sector-18 Metro Station

The harassment did not stop there. On a Sunday afternoon, while walking toward the Sector-18 Metro station, Pateria was again approached by a stranger. Initially thinking he might be a follower of her journalistic work, she was taken aback when he boldly stated, "Don’t be shocked. Please calm down. Maine aapko walk karte dekha. Aap mujhe bahut acchi lagi. To maine socha rok kar baat ki jaaye. Kya pata koi chance ban jaaye." This forward and inappropriate behavior left her no choice but to walk away, calling a friend for support.

The Noida Police acted quickly, apprehending the two men within hours of the complaint being filed. Both Pal and Singh are now in custody, facing charges that could lead to severe legal consequences. The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of women in public spaces, emphasizing that such behavior will not be tolerated. 

Meanwhile, the authorities are looking into whether Pal and Singh have been involved in similar incidents in the past. The case has also highlighted the importance of reporting such behavior to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.