Patna, July 15: It is time male, and not female, journalists covered the crime against women beat to bring a real change. These and other views emerged at a national workshop on "Domestic violence, social norms and role of media".

Social activists and women journalists from across the country urged women to never choose to become a victim in any circumstance at the programme organised by South Asian Women in Media (SAWM), Bihar chapter, at a city hotel on Saturday.

Speakers shared many stories of violence against women at home and the workplace. They said the media could play an effective role in preventing violence against women.

Social activist Sudha Verghese, who has done a lot of work for the downtrodden Musahar community, said village women should not fear wielding brooms and lathis (sticks) if facing domestic violence.

Verghese recalled a meeting of Scheduled Caste women. She said she was shocked to find the response when she asked if any woman had faced domestic violence at any point of time. "Only one woman hesitantly raised her hand. I asked her why she was hesitant," said Verghese. "She said her husband was not physically assaulting her, but she had suffered mentally harassment in the form of abuse. The time has come for every woman to wield the broom and lathi (stick) if they face violence at home. Stop being victims every time." She said women must know the various laws to protect them against violence.

SAWM Bihar president and columnist Nivedita Jha, too, talked about rising incidents of domestic violence. "More women are killed these days in domestic violence cases than earlier. Women have to stand up for their rights or this won't change," Jha said.

Journalist-author Geetashree talked about male dominance in the media. She said it was sad that women journalists were still not involved in political reporting.

"Also, it's unfair that media houses assign only women reporters to cover violence against women," said Geetashree. "Why can't male journalists take up these tasks? Until and unless we involve men and create awareness, nothing is going to change. Creating awareness just among women won't help."

Earlier, Assembly Speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary inaugurated the workshop. SWAM national general secretary Swati Bhattacharya, journalist Shruti Ganapatye, Durba Ghosh, Minati Chakalanavis were also present.

A documentary film, Velvet Revolution, showing lady journalists' journey from print to electronic media was also screened on the occasion.