Many criminologists and experts in law have acknowledged that many a case of violence against women goes unreported. And if at all reported, many cases are settled at various levels of law enforcement without proper trial and the culprit ends up going scott-free. This has to do with social stigma and pressures from the family and corruption of the law enforcement agencies. This precisely gives impunity to criminals and lumpen elements in the society. The audacity to commit heinous crimes against women springs from this impression that women do not report owing to the pressures of the society and the fear of mistreatment at Police stations. Abhaya case is just a case in point to show that how responsive and vigilant civil society (citizens groups ) can bring the acts of violence into limelight.There was a lot of confusion around the attack. Print media reported that a a woman IT employee was abducted and assailants attempted to rape her but left her without any harm. Half the Sky, Half the earth took on a protest along with a group of IT professionals at Hi-Tech city on 21st October. This was widely reported in media and the police took the case seriously and the facts emerged. The issue of violence against women is again brought into lime light. Many News channels have run talk shows and spoke to people working in IT in and around Hi-tech city and brought forth various safety concerns of women. Half the Sky, Half the Earth expresses its solidarity and support to the girl. Her courage in reporting the attack is commendable. Its the criminal that has to be ashamed not the survivor. Her act goes a long way in encouraging others to report cases of violence against them. We demand a thorough investigation of the case and a speedy trial. We request authorities to beef-up security by providing adequate lighting, policing at bus-stops and auto stands. In view of the harassments girl experience and the risk associated with it, while traveling by private vehicles, Government has to ensure RTC buses are available for working women till late in the night. Police helplines have to be publicized widely. Police should ensure that women have confidence in them and to report cases of harassment and violence. Media has played a responsible role, in dealing with the details of the case. We request friends in media to continue their good work in highlighting issues related to women. They should continue to deal rape cases this with utmost sensitivity and ensure that the privacy of the survivor is protected. Civil society and media should create a discourse that lays thread-bare the patriarchal mindset and trivialization of violence against women. Only a vigilant and democratically active citizenry can bring in a change in society that is free of any discrimination and inequality.
Posted on: Wed, 23 Oct 2013 05:04:32 +0000
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