BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya recently called women wearing vulgar clothes as Surpanakha, Ravana’s sister from Ramayana who tried to seduce Lord Rama. This comment was made in a public event organised in view of Maharvir Jayanti. The comment sparked controversy and made us question, why are women’s clothes always a measure of decency and character?

Why is it that even in the 21st century, women are morally policed for the clothes they wear?

It all comes down to the freedom of choice then. Especially for women. Especially in modern India. To wear sarior not, she and only she has the power to decide that. She does not owe any explanation to anyone for her choices, writes Gunjan Pant Pande.

Nighties have gradually risen to be the clothing of choice for women, especially among middle-class women from small towns, where pyjamas and shorts are still a big no-no. For these women, a nightie or gown or maxi is a symbol of personal freedom, within their constrained existence in the society or their own house. A nighty therefore […]

It is important that our stance against fashion policing also opposes criticism of women’s conservative clothing choices. Patriarchy and misogyny force numerous women into clothing choices they do not approve of. It is common for us to voice support to such women. To support women who have to hide behind a pallu or a burkha […]