Law student's pen: Crimes and the Society
Oct. 26, 2024 • Nandini Kumari
Student's Pen
The Rape and murder case of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at R.G Kar Medical College and Hospital has stirred nationwide outrage and intense scrutiny regarding the safety within medical institutions.
The victim, whose body was discovered partially unclothed in the hospital's seminar hall on August 9, 2024, displayed signs of violence, including facial injuries, broken glasses, and severe trauma. Her father observed these injuries and insisted that the incident was not a suicide, as initially implied by some hospital personnel. Allegations of a cover-up emerged after delays in police involvement and questionable practices at the scene, such as unauthorized renovations near the seminar hall, which raised concerns over potential evidence tampering.
The case was later transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after dissatisfaction with local law enforcement's handling. Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer connected to the hospital, was arrested following the discovery of forensic evidence linking him to the crime. The case’s disturbing details, especially the suspicion of multiple attackers, led to large-scale protests by healthcare workers across India. They called for justice and greater security measures in medical institutions, with services interrupted in several regions.
The increasing violence against women
We have witnessed numerous heinous crimes in our society. These crimes range from the murder of an individual to the rape of a woman. The severity of these crimes varies, but it is important to note that any crime, regardless of its magnitude, is still a crime. The punishment for these crimes can vary based on the level of harm inflicted on the victim and society. It's crucial to understand that any crime affects not just the individual, but humanity as a whole, as well as future generations.
One of the most highlighted heinous crimes against society was the Nirbhaya gang rape in 2012. Despite subsequent changes to the punishment system and the safety measures for women, crimes against women have unfortunately not ceased. Even after legislative changes, societal attitudes have not transformed. Women are still unfairly blamed for crimes committed against them, with blame often placed on their clothing, the time of day they were out, their profession, and even their way of life.
Conversely, the fundamental standards of living for women are frequently blamed for crimes that are not their fault. Victim blaming often involves concerns about a woman being out late, wearing revealing clothes, having loose morals, or being involved with multiple partners. It's important to recognize that these questions perpetuate the unfair blaming of women. Shouldn't men also be held accountable, irrespective of their attire or lifestyle choices? Cultural norms and societal attitudes should not discriminate based on gender, class, sex, or race – as our constitution specifies.
Regarding the excuses given for blaming women for wearing revealing clothes, it is essential to clarify that rapes have been recorded against victims ranging from a 6-month-old child to an 80-year-old woman, as well as individuals in grave situations. The attire and timing of the incidents are not indicative of a woman's vulnerability. This extends to the occurrence of marital rapes as well. The problem extends beyond women, as there are recorded instances of rape against men.
Rape fundamentally revolves around consent – specifically, the mental consent to engage in sexual activity with a partner or any individual. Rape is the forceful engagement in sexual activity without consent, and the consent giver has the right to withdraw consent based on their mental state. This complex understanding often eludes society, leading to the unwarranted blaming of women due to their historical vulnerability and the societal biases they face.
Education, social systems, and media representation all play a significant role in reinforcing these biases. Women, like other genders, have their fundamental rights as humans. Although throughout history, these rights have been denied to women, it's imperative to empower women not as divine figures, but as fundamental members of the human race.
So, what could be a potential solution to these issues?
Perhaps the most effective solution would involve grassroots improvements, the cessation of objectifying women, integrating equality teachings into children's education, and dismantling systems that promote the objectification of women's bodies, which only serves to foster curiosity, especially among men. Education should also encompass the importance of respecting women, understanding the concept of "good touch" and "bad touch," and imparting comprehensive and unbiased sexual education in schools.
While these improvements will inevitably take time, it does not imply that the current generation of women should have to endure crimes and victim blaming. It is time for women to stand up for themselves – whether it's slapping a harasser for eve-teasing or confronting a stalker. Every individual should have the right and ability to defend themselves, and engaging in self-defence should not be deemed a crime.
The government should play a role by developing infrastructure, maintaining safe roads, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring that the justice system primarily serves the needs of the victims, rather than prioritizing the defendants.
As responsible citizens, we should vote for a government that prioritizes safety, security, and welfare and does not compromise by aligning with criminals for political gain.
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