chikan

Chikan, written as 痴漢 in Japanese, is a term used to describe sexual harassment or molestation, typically committed by an individual on public transportation or other crowded public spaces. The most common form involves unwanted touching or groping of another person, often occurring on trains during peak hours. While the label originated in Japan, similar concerns exist in other contexts and cultures.

Etymology and usage: Chikan combines kanji that convey wrongdoing or folly with a reference to a man, and the term is widely used in Japanese discourse to name and condemn this behavior. It is generally applied to acts of indecent touching rather than to verbal harassment alone.

Legal status: Chikan acts are illegal in Japan. Perpetrators can be charged with indecent acts or related offenses depending on the circumstances, and penalties may include fines or imprisonment. Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors routinely pursue cases when investigations identify offenders and victims come forward. The legal framework also supports measures aimed at stabilizing transit operations during incidents.

Prevention and response: To reduce chikan, many railway operators implement women-only cars during busy times, deploy additional staff at stations, and use surveillance cameras. Public awareness campaigns emphasize personal safety, consent, and the illegality of sexual harassment. Victims are encouraged to report incidents to railway staff or police, and some systems provide hotlines or reporting apps. Training for staff on de-escalation and rapid response is common.

Impact: Chikan contributes to fear and discomfort on public transit and can deter people from using certain services or routes. Addressing it requires coordinated efforts from law enforcement, transit operators, and the public to improve reporting, deterrence, and support for victims.