The protection and empowerment of women

 

The protection and empowerment of women 

In today's edition of the New Indian Express, several distressing reports highlight the ongoing victimization of women in a male-dominated society. Unfortunately, this is not an issue confined to India; it's a global problem. The cases mentioned—such as the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, sexual harassment in the film industry as revealed by the Hema Committee appointed by the Kerala government, allegations against a special sub-inspector in Madurai, the gang rape of a 14-year-old girl in Jodhpur, the sexual assault of two minor girls in Thane, and the assault of a 19-year-old nursing student in Ratnagiri—paint a bleak picture of the safety and dignity of women.

 

It is deeply saddening that since the dawn of humanity, women have suffered under the oppressive sexual urges of men. Sex, when based on mutual love and respect, can be a source of joy and connection. However, the idea of deriving pleasure from forcibly subjugating a woman and committing a heinous crime is incomprehensible. Such actions stem not from a desire for pleasure but from a perverse need to assert power over another gender.

 

Education plays a crucial role in addressing this issue. Both boys and girls should be taught from an early age about their bodies, the importance of love and care in relationships, and the clear distinction between consensual acts and criminal offenses. Additionally, empowering women through self-defense training can provide them with the tools to protect themselves against potential attackers.

 

However, the most urgent change needed is in our judicial system. There must be a clear and unwavering message that rape and sexual assault will not be tolerated. Swift and severe punishments, including the possibility of capital punishment for the most egregious cases, could serve as a strong deterrent. Justice should be delivered swiftly, ensuring that the memory of the crime remains fresh, and the consequences are immediate.

 

As a society, we must evolve and adapt to the needs of the modern world. We cannot afford to regress to a primitive state where muscle power and brute force rule. The protection and empowerment of women are essential if we are to create a just and equitable society.