'I was called Made in China': Jwala Gutta talks about racial taunts she faced

Delhi: Badminton doubles ace Jwala Gutta on Tuesday revealed she was bullied and faced racial barbs about her looks but that she was never intimidated.

"I was criticised about how I am and how I look. When a woman is candid and articulates her opinions freely, it is never taken in a right way. I was called 'Made in China' and was asked to prove my nationality," On International Women's Day, Gutta told News18.

"Earlier it used to be eve-teasing but now they (bullies) have a bigger platform. The power of anonymity has given them the confidence that they can harass or tease anyone without facing repercussions," Gutta said.

Social media policing and counselling must be more strict, according to the recipient of the Arjuna Award. "Social media policing must become more strict. Sometimes there are young kids using fake IDs to harass women on social media. More than punishment, they need counselling. Regular counselling is important. The kind of words these people have started using, I won't be surprised if they become violent in real life as well, not just on social media," in strong words, she asserted.

"The fear of getting caught is not there. Whenever I feel it's critical or important, I report these things to the cyber-crime police. Trollers get worried but it still is not enough," she added.

Network18 had organized the conversation as part of its #ItsNotOk campaign, where it partnered with Truecaller to highlight why it's important for women to 'Call It Out' when they experience harassment.

Moreover, she urged women to come out and report harassment they have faced instead of remaining silent.

"I think it's very important for women to come out and speak about harassment they face. Keeping quiet or not doing anything about it is an encouragement to people who harass women online and offline. I would also like to tell women to stop doubting themselves. If you are the victim, you have nothing to fear. Come out and call out. Use the system to your advantage. The system is there to protect us. Don't be scared. Believe that there will be a change in the future," Gutta remarked.

Additionally, the eminent sportperson spoke to parents regarding raising their children.

"This culture of victimising the victim or victim's family has forced everybody to keep quiet about any kind of harassment. My dad always told me to stand up against eve-teasing. I always stood up for myself. There must be counselling sessions for children and parents in schools. Parents must talk to children about such issues and teach them to conduct themselves properly. The choice of words is very important," she concluded.