Apparently, going public online about women being harassed violates Facebook’s “bullying policies”. Bengaluru-based fitness trainer, Kavitha Ravindran got a rude shock when her uploaded screenshot showing lewd messages that she had been receiving from a man was removed by Facebook for “violating community standards”. Originally, the picture carried the man’s name and display picture which was covered up by Facebook.
The incident has since then gone viral and given rise to public outrage and support for Ravindran. Ravindran redoubled her efforts and for a second time uploaded another screenshot where she had reported the harassing messages to Facebook. And once again, Facebook sent out a signal that it seemed to find the messages just fine.
In her own defense, Ravindran says, “Few things I want to make clear. This is the first bit. Internet is unforgivable place. People are questioning why didn’t I block the person in the first place? Someone like me, in-spite of tightened filtration, I get tons of messages. I didn’t see it. I only saw the whole thing in one go. So what did I do? I reported it for sexually explicit and offensive to FB. What was the response? Well, please see it yourself. I will attach screenshot. The message still remains until I blocked him off.”
Adding further why she didn’t just ignore the whole thing, she clarifies, “Let says for argument sake, I did read the message and ignored, did he stop? No, he got more courage say inflict more abuse. We live in a society where even if you stand up for yourself, you are assaulted and questioned. Did I go texting filth? No. So, why point the finger at me.”
On the immense public support she is receiving, she conveys her gratitude by saying, “Thanks to all who are continuously supporting me. I have immense respect and love for such men and women.”
More power to you, Kavitha!
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