On Violence Against Women and Girls

In recent days, the increasing frequency of crimes against women in India has become alarmingly evident. The horrifying report of a doctor raped and murdered inside the seminar hall of RG Kar Hospital in Kolkata is a stark reminder of the pervasive violence against women. This incident, coupled with numerous reports of rape, molestation, and harassment across the country, paints a grim picture of the status of women’s safety in India.

The arrest of a choreographer in Karnataka for sexually assaulting a young woman from Nagaland in Bengaluru adds to the distressing narrative. This case highlights a disturbing pattern of violence that knows no boundaries, affecting women from all walks of life and regions. In Mokokchung, a minor girl, not yet four years old, has reportedly been raped, with the investigation still underway. Such incidents reveal a deep-seated issue that demands immediate and comprehensive action.

Despite the existence of laws designed to address crimes against women, the persistence of such heinous acts suggests that legal frameworks alone are insufficient. Society needs to confront these crimes with unwavering resolve. While law enforcement agencies must be equipped and empowered to ensure effective and timely justice, a broader cultural shift is equally crucial. This shift involves fostering a zero-tolerance attitude toward all forms of violence and challenging parochial norms that enable such behavior. Strengthening education and awareness programs is vital to changing societal attitudes and preventing future violence. Until there is a comprehensive approach that combines robust legal action with profound societal change, the cycle of violence will continue.

Women and girls must be able to live without fear of violence. It is imperative that we demand justice for the victims and work collectively to create a safer, more equitable society.