A chilli reception

In response to the gang rape of a young Delhi professional, the Shiv Sena has recommended a desi form of the modern pepper spray for women to fend off assailants: chilli powder. As part of its campaign against attacks on women, the party has started the distribution of chilli powder in Greater Mumbai — and has attracted a fair number of women. This has encouraged grocery shops in Mumbai suburbs to increase chilli powder stocks in anticipation of mass orders from Shiv Sena shakhas.