PTI
AHMEDABAD, March 8
Squadron Leader Sneha Shekhawat, who became the first woman pilot to lead the Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent during the Republic Day parade this year, on Sunday held that people who remain mute spectators are more responsible for violence against women.
The Indian Air Force Officer, who was felicitated by Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel in Gandhinagar on the occasion of International Women’s Day on Sunday, also exhorted people to raise their voice against harassment of women.
“People who just watch violence against women are somewhat more responsible. When someone sees a woman being harassed, it is their duty to go and stop that. Usually when people see that, they move ahead... we should fight back,” Ms. Shekhawat told reporters Ahmedabad.
Ms. Shekhawat (32) belongs to Gandhinagar and is currently posted at the Vadodara air base.“People who are suffering should fight back and those who are watching should also fight back to stop this. If you are watching such things then you are the biggest culprit. Whatever wrong is taking place in front of you, raise your voice and stop it,” she said.
On her experience about leading the parade, Ms. Shekhawat said it was a matter of pride for any uniformed person to walk on the Rajpath.
“Whether from the Air Force, Army, Navy or from any paramilitary force, it is a matter of pride for any uniformed person to walk on the Rajpath.
“When you walk on Rajpath, people are applauding you, children are praising you... India Gate is in front of you and you are saluting the President of India. That’s the best feeling,” Ms. Shekhawat said.
”... and this time U.S. President Barack Obama was the Guest of Honour. So it was good feeling this time,” she added.
Speaking on what it takes to lead, the Sqaudron Leader said it was quality of a person and not the gender that matters in leadership.
“It does not matter whether a woman or a man is the leader. It is quality which matters. Like, I am really thankful to my organisation for giving me this chance to lead that (Parade). Men’s contingent was also commanded by an officer, so I feel proud as an officer and not as a woman. As an officer, I feel proud to command the contingent and to march on Rajpath,” she said.
When asked whether women should be included in combat operations of the armed forces, Ms. Shekahwat said things are changing with time.
“Things are evolving. Earlier, we were not included in flying, now we are into flying. These things will change slowly and people at high level must be thinking on this. If given a chance, we will never let it down,” she responded.
Ms. Shekhawat said besides her family’s support to join IAF as a pilot, she drew inspiration from her brother who despite suffering from cerebral palsy, a movement disorder, became a chartered accountant.
