India’s crisis of sexual violence: Every hour, every day, a staggering reality. As rape cases rise, so must our resolve for justice and reform. From the heartbreak of Kolkata to nationwide outrage, it’s time to act decisively and protect every victim, suggests Raju Korti.
Amid the country’s outrage over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata, the statistics of rape, paint a grim picture. As per the annual National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report, between 2017 and 2022, a total of 1.89 lakh rape cases were reported in India, involving 1.91 lakh victims. In at least 1.79 lakh cases, the rapist was a known person while in 9,670 it was someone the victim did not know. What is staggering is; every hour, India recorded almost four rape cases and in more than three of these, the rapist was known to the victim.
Further, the highest number of rape victims in India is between the ages of 18 and 30 years. Of the 1.89 lakh cases, 1.13 lakh were from this age group. So, of the 86 rapes recorded every day, 52 are from the age group between 18 and 30 years. The remaining cases, 35 per day, could be from any age.
Even as statistics paint a very disturbing picture, in recent years, India has been rocked by a series of horrific rape cases that have shocked the nation and galvanised widespread calls for justice and reform. The recent rape case in Kolkata has sparked outrage and calls for justice, highlighting ongoing issues with safety and legal accountability. Among the most harrowing incidents was the 2012 gang rape of a young woman in Delhi, which became a turning point in national consciousness and sparked massive protests and demands for legal and societal changes. More recently, the brutal gang rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in Kathua and the violent assault of a young woman in Unnao have further underscored the pervasive and deeply troubling nature of sexual violence in the country. These cases, marked by their extreme brutality and the subsequent struggles for justice, have exposed the systemic failures in addressing rape and highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
India has faced a troubling surge in reported rape cases over the past decade. High-profile cases and persistent media coverage have brought the issue into the spotlight, highlighting both systemic problems and the urgent need for reform. While rape and sexual violence are global issues, the situation in India presents unique challenges and requires targeted interventions. This article explores the rise in rape cases in India, examines what can be done to address this crisis, and considers how the situation compares to other countries.
An alarming rise
Recent statistics paint a stark picture of sexual violence in India. The National Crime Records Bureau records that there were 33,000 reported rape cases in 2022 alone. This figure, though staggering, may not fully capture the extent of the problem, as underreporting remains significant due to societal stigma and fear of retaliation. The increase in reported cases can be attributed to greater awareness, improved reporting mechanisms, and a growing willingness among survivors to come forward. Nevertheless, the persistence of the problem highlights deep-rooted issues in India’s legal and social systems.
Traditional gender roles and patriarchal values play a significant role in perpetuating sexual violence. In many parts of India, women are still seen as inferior and their autonomy is often disregarded. These attitudes contribute to a culture where sexual violence is normalised and excused.
Although India has laws against sexual violence, their enforcement is often inadequate. The legal process can be lengthy and traumatising, discouraging many survivors from seeking justice. Additionally, the legal framework sometimes fails to address the nuances of sexual violence effectively.
Police and judicial systems are frequently criticised for their lack of sensitivity and responsiveness. Victims may face victim-blaming attitudes, and investigations can be marred by corruption and inefficiency.
Economic disparities and lack of access to education and social services can exacerbate the problem. Women from marginalised communities are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence.
Strengthening legal framework
There is a need for comprehensive legal reforms to address gaps and ensure stricter punishments for perpetrators. The implementation of laws must be consistent, and legal processes should be streamlined to reduce the trauma for survivors. The focus should be on creating a supportive environment that encourages reporting and provides protection for victims.
Training for police and judiciary members is crucial to ensure sensitivity and efficiency in handling sexual violence cases. Specialised units within police departments and fast-track courts dedicated to sexual violence can help expedite cases and deliver justice more effectively.
Addressing the root causes of sexual violence requires a cultural shift towards gender equality. Education campaigns that challenge traditional gender norms and promote respect for women’s rights can help change societal attitudes. Schools and communities should engage in dialogues that emphasise the importance of consent and mutual respect.
Providing adequate support services, such as counselling, legal aid, and medical care, is essential for survivors of sexual violence. Establishing crisis centres and helplines can offer immediate assistance and long-term support for victims.
Media campaigns and public education programmes can play a significant role in raising awareness about sexual violence and encouraging societal change. Highlighting stories of survivors and advocates can help to challenge stigmas and build a culture of support.
Grassroots organisations and community leaders can be instrumental in driving change at the local level. Initiatives that engage communities in prevention efforts and promote collective action can have a significant impact.
Situation in other countries
While India’s situation is particularly acute, sexual violence is a global issue with varying degrees of prevalence and response. Comparing India’s situation to other countries provides valuable insights into potential solutions and best practices.
The U.S. has a well-established legal framework for addressing sexual violence, including the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and various state-level laws. Despite this, challenges such as underreporting, disparities in legal representation, and victim-blaming persist. Public awareness campaigns and education programmes play a significant role in addressing these issues.
Known for its progressive stance on gender equality, Sweden has implemented comprehensive measures to combat sexual violence. The country has robust legal frameworks, specialised support services, and a high level of public awareness. However, recent reports suggest that even in Sweden, challenges remain, particularly regarding sexual violence in immigrant communities.
South Africa faces a high rate of sexual violence, exacerbated by socio-economic inequalities and a legacy of apartheid. Efforts to address the crisis include specialised courts and support services, but challenges such as underreporting and systemic issues persist. Community-based initiatives and collaborations with NGOs are critical in addressing the problem.
Japan has made strides in addressing sexual violence through legal reforms and support services. However, cultural factors and societal stigmas can hinder reporting and effective legal responses. Recent efforts focus on improving public awareness and encouraging more open discussions about sexual violence.
Conclusion
The rise in rape cases in India is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address effectively. Strengthening legal frameworks, improving law enforcement, promoting gender equality, supporting survivors, and enhancing public awareness are crucial steps in combating sexual violence. By learning from the experiences of other countries and implementing targeted interventions, India can make significant progress in addressing this grave issue.
It is essential for all stakeholders—government bodies, civil society organisations, and communities—to work together to create a safer and more equitable society. Only through concerted and sustained efforts can we hope to eradicate sexual violence and ensure justice for survivors.
Raju Korti is a senior journalist with over four-decade experience of working in media institutions.