Violence against women is a pervasive and deeply ingrained societal issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. It manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse, and has severe implications for the well-being and autonomy of women.
Prevalence and Forms:
Violence against women is alarmingly widespread. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 3 women globally has experienced some form of physical or sexual violence. This violence often occurs in intimate partner relationships but can also take place in other settings, such as workplaces or public spaces. The different forms include domestic violence, sexual harassment, trafficking, and harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation.
Impacts:
The impacts of violence against women are profound and far-reaching. Physically, women may suffer from injuries, chronic health problems, or even death. Psychologically, the trauma can lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Economically, the costs of medical care and lost productivity can be significant, affecting both individuals and societies. Socially, the stigma and isolation resulting from violence can undermine women’s ability to participate fully in their communities.
Kolkata Doctor case:
As the recent Kolkata murder-rape case sent shockwaves across the country and led to nationwide protests, the 31-year-old trainee who was subjected to inhumane acts used to consider R G Kar Medical College and Hospital as her ‘second home,’ reported ToI.
From a batch of MBBS students who had seen Covid pandemic break out as they learnt their craft, she had chosen respiratory medicine as her specialisation. At RG Kar, the campus she called her “second home”, she immersed herself in patient management, the report said further.
On August 9, after a shift and study cycle that stretched for 36 hours without a break, she had dozed off on a platform in the college’s seminar room when she was sexually assaulted by one or more individuals (still the subject of a probe), and murdered in an attack of depraved brutality. Interns and fellow postgraduate trainees who had come to the seminar room the next morning found her body. Her laptop, a notebook & cell phone lay intact beside it.
Role model in her family:
Considered a role model, both for her good academic scores and her soft-spoken manner, the 31-year-old trainee cracked both JEE and medical, a relative said. “She chose MBBS and qualified for the course at two state-run medical colleges. Eventually, she chose JNM Medical College Hospital in Kalyani. When she decided to pursue PG, she qualified at two medical colleges and picked RG Kar (which is about an hour’s bus ride from her Sodepur home). She meant everything to us,” she said.
The Union Home Ministry has asked all state police forces to provide it situation reports every two hours in the wake of protests by doctors, nursing staff and others against the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. In a communication to the state police forces, the home ministry said that the law and order situation of all states should be monitored in view of the protests.
Initial Autopsy:
The initial autopsy indicated that the victim was murdered after being sexually assaulted, police said. It also ruled out suicide, they said, adding that a case has now been registered at the Tala Police Station. According to the four-page report, there was bleeding from the woman’s private parts, with injury marks in other parts of the body.
“There was bleeding from both her eyes and mouth, injuries over the face and nail. The victim was also bleeding from her private parts. She also has injuries in her belly, left leg… neck, in her right hand, ring finger and… lips,” it said.
Two lady witnesses and the woman’s mother were present during the autopsy, which was conducted on-camera. Another senior officer of Kolkata Police said the crime took place between 3 am and 6 am. “Her neck bone was also found broken. It seems that she was first strangulated and then smothered to death. We are waiting for the full report of the autopsy, which will help us identify the culprits,” he said.
Later, details emerged that the victim’s glasses were also shattered and shards of the same had pierced her eyes, as per NDTV.
Efforts to Combat Violence:
Addressing violence against women requires a multifaceted approach. Legal frameworks need to be strengthened and effectively implemented to protect victims and prosecute offenders. Support services such as shelters, counselling, and legal aid are crucial for assisting survivors. Educational programs that promote gender equality and respectful relationships can help prevent violence before it starts. Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability and challenging harmful stereotypes are essential for creating lasting change.
“End the silence, break the chain,
Stand together, break the pain.
Respect and equality, the path to see,
Together we rise, and set women free.”
Conclusion:
Violence against women is a critical human rights issue that demands urgent and sustained action. It requires a commitment from individuals, communities, and governments to address its root causes and provide support for survivors. By working together, society can create environments where women are free from violence and able to live with dignity and respect.
By: S.S.Sharnitha
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