By Uzma Ehtasham
India’s reputation as the “Rape Capital” is a grim testament to the severe and persistent issue of sexual violence that plagues the nation. This disturbing trend affects a broad spectrum of individuals, including doctors, young girls, women from various socio-economic backgrounds, foreign nationals, and even actresses. The alarming rise in sexual violence underscores a deep-seated crisis that demands immediate and decisive action. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the situation has worsened significantly. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals a troubling increase in crimes against women during Modi’s decade-long tenure. The recorded incidents of such crimes rose from 337,922 in 2014 to 371,503 in 2020. This upward trajectory is indicative of a deteriorating law and order situation, with sexual violence emerging as a critical issue.
A closer look at specific regions reveals even more distressing statistics. The Times of India reports a staggering 235 percent increase in rape incidents in Mumbai from 2012 to 2021. Additionally, over 400,000 cases of crimes against women were registered between 2020 and 2021. On average, the NCRB data indicates that 86 women become victims of sexual violence every day in India, with 29 cases reported every hour. These figures highlight an epidemic of sexual violence that the nation has yet to effectively address. The escalation in sexual violence during Modi’s administration reflects a broader failure of the government to tackle this crisis comprehensively. Many instances of sexual assault go unreported, exacerbating the climate of insecurity among women. High-profile cases such as the 2017 gang rape of a minor girl in Uttar Pradesh involving a BJP member, the 2018 rape and murder of a Muslim girl in Kashmir, and the 2020 gang rape of a Dalit girl in Uttar Pradesh illustrate the gravity of the situation and the systemic issues within law enforcement.
Further complicating the issue is the aftermath of the 2002 Gujarat riots, where Bilkis Bano’s case remains a stark example of the justice system’s failings. Bano, who was gang-raped during the riots, saw her attackers controversially released in 2022 following intervention from Modi’s administration, despite the severity of their crimes. This case exemplifies the deep-seated problems within India’s legal framework and its propensity to shield perpetrators of sexual violence, particularly when political interests are at stake. The Indian judicial system frequently falls short in holding perpetrators accountable, a reality driven by systemic issues within law enforcement and the judiciary. The pervasive culture of impunity and the frail legal framework hinder effective prosecution, perpetuating a cycle of suffering and denial of justice for many victims. The inability of the judicial system to provide adequate redress reflects a broader societal failure to address the root causes of sexual violence.
As India grapples with these challenges, millions of women who have suffered sexual violence continue to seek justice in a system that struggles to address their pain. The nation’s response to this crisis will be pivotal in shaping the future safety and security of its women. It is imperative that the Indian government and judiciary undertake significant reforms to address the systemic issues that contribute to the perpetuation of sexual violence. This includes improving the effectiveness of law enforcement, ensuring fair and prompt judicial processes, and fostering a culture of accountability for perpetrators. The urgent need for comprehensive action and reform cannot be overstated. The voices of victims must be heard and acted upon, and the legal system must be strengthened to ensure that justice is not only promised but delivered. As India confronts this pressing crisis, it is crucial for the nation to commit to meaningful change, ensuring that every woman has the right to live free from violence and fear. Only through concerted efforts can India hope to build a safer, more equitable society for all its citizens.
- #EndSexualViolence,
- #JusticeForWomen,
- #IndiaRapeCrisis,
- #StopRapeCulture,
- #AccountabilityNow,
- #WomenDeserveSafety,
- #ReformTheSystem,
- #JusticeForSurvivors,
- #BreakTheSilence,
- #StandWithVictims,
