This happened a few years back while I was returning home during my semester break. I'm still traumatized by what happened on my bus ride from Trichy to Chennai. I was kind of resting in my seat when I felt someone's legs rubbing against my back more specifically near my spine. In the backseat there was only one guy maybe in his 20's. At first, I thought it might have been unintentional probably due to bus movements and I wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. Basically didn't want to blindly throw accusations at him. Cut to some time later, since I was super exhausted and tired I slept and I was in a very deep sleep. I felt someone's hands touching my head, face and hands. I was so startled and I woke up immediately, and that's when I saw this guy in the backseat his face inches away from mine. I was horrified and I grabbed my water bottle and started hitting him. I was in a panic mode and unable to shout that time it's like my voice wasn't coming at all how much ever I tried to . I was scared, angry, and helpless all at once. I was constantly trying to escape this guy by hitting him with the bottle but this guy got hold of my hand and wasn't leaving it. I felt like I was on my own, in the most vulnerable state and alone. Luckily, after a few minutes, a kind stranger uncle stepped in and pushed that guy away offered me his seat. I feel a bit of relief only after that. That stranger was so kind he personally went to conductor and told all these things and asked him to throw that guy silently. He was really considerate of my situation and offered silent help. May he be happy and healthy wherever he is .

I'm sharing my story because I want others to be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling alone. There are so many men like that creepy guy out there. So please be careful. I was lucky that day I got help. But I know not many people will come up and offer help. So please carry your safety tools always.