Status of Women in India – Gender-Based Violence

Definition of Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender. It encompasses various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological harm. GBV is often rooted in gender inequality and societal norms that perpetuate discrimination against women.

Types of Gender-Based Violence

Domestic violence is a prevalent form of GBV, characterised by physical, emotional, or psychological abuse within the home. Sexual violence includes acts such as rape, sexual assault, and harassment. Dowry-related violence occurs when abuse arises from dowry demands. Human trafficking involves forced labour and sexual exploitation, while female infanticide and feticide refer to the gender-based killing of female infants and sex-selective abortions. Acid attacks involve the use of acid to disfigure or harm women.

Prevalence of Gender-Based Violence

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-20), 31% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, and 6% reported experiencing sexual violence. The Crime in India Report (2020) indicated that 4.05 lakh cases of crimes against women were reported, with 88% of these cases falling under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and special laws.

Legal Framework

The legal framework addressing GBV includes several key acts. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 provides protection against domestic violence. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 aims to address workplace harassment. The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 prohibits dowry-related practices, while the Indian Penal Code includes specific sections addressing rape, sexual assault, and dowry death.

Government Initiatives

The Government of India has implemented various initiatives to combat GBV. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign focuses on saving and educating the girl child. One Stop Centres (OSCs) provide integrated support to women affected by violence. The Mahila Police Volunteers initiative aims to empower women and ensure their safety.

Societal Factors Contributing to GBV

Patriarchal norms and deep-rooted gender stereotypes contribute to the prevalence of GBV in India. Women’s economic dependency on male family members increases their vulnerability to violence. Caste and class disparities also affect the rates of violence, with marginalized communities facing higher risks. Limited education and awareness of rights further exacerbate the issue.

Impact of Gender-Based Violence

The impact of GBV is multifaceted. Physically, survivors may experience injuries, chronic pain, and reproductive health issues. Mental health consequences include depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Economically, GBV can lead to loss of productivity and increased healthcare costs. Socially, survivors may face stigmatization, isolation, and reduced participation in community life.

Role of NGOs and Civil Society

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society play role in addressing GBV. They conduct awareness campaigns to educate communities about GBV and women’s rights. Support services include legal aid, counselling, and shelter for survivors. Advocacy efforts focus on lobbying for policy changes and better implementation of existing laws.

International Commitments

India has ratified several international agreements aimed at combating GBV. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) was ratified in 1993. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted in 1995, commits to eliminating violence against women.

Recent Trends

Recent trends indicate an increase in reporting of GBV cases, attributed to greater awareness and legal literacy among women. However, digital violence, including online harassment and cyberbullying, has emerged as a new concern.

Challenges in Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Significant challenges persist in addressing GBV in India. Underreporting remains a critical issue due to stigma and fear of social repercussions. Judicial delays and low conviction rates hinder survivors’ access to justice. Resource constraints affect the funding and support available for women’s organisations and shelters.

Statistics on Gender-Based Violence

The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported 4,05,861 cases of crimes against women in 2019, with a decrease to 3,71,503 cases in 2020. The Global Gender Gap Report (2021) ranked India 140 out of 156 countries in terms of gender parity, denoting ongoing challenges in achieving equality for women.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss how patriarchal norms and economic dependency contribute to the prevalence of gender-based violence in Indian society.
2. Examine the effectiveness of the legal frameworks established to combat gender-based violence in India, considering the challenges of implementation and societal attitudes.
3. Analyze the impact of gender-based violence on women’s mental health and the importance of mental health support services in the recovery process.
4. Point out the role of non-governmental organizations in addressing gender-based violence in India and discuss the challenges they face in their advocacy efforts.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss how patriarchal norms and economic dependency contribute to the prevalence of gender-based violence in Indian society.

1. Patriarchal norms promote male dominance and control, leading to justification of violence against women.
2. Economic dependency on male family members restricts women’s ability to leave abusive relationships.
3. Social conditioning often normalizes violence as a means of conflict resolution within families.
4. Limited access to education and employment perpetuates financial dependence and vulnerability.
5. Cultural stigma surrounding divorce and separation further traps women in abusive situations.

2. Examine the effectiveness of the legal frameworks established to combat gender-based violence in India, considering the challenges of implementation and societal attitudes.

1. India has enacted laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005) and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013).
2. Implementation is often hindered by inadequate training for law enforcement and lack of resources.
3. Societal attitudes often lead to victim-blaming, discouraging women from reporting incidents.
4. Judicial backlog and slow legal processes deter victims from seeking justice.
5. Awareness campaigns are necessary to educate the public about rights and available legal protections.

3. Analyze the impact of gender-based violence on women’s mental health and the importance of mental health support services in the recovery process.

1. Survivors of gender-based violence often experience PTSD, anxiety, and depression, affecting their overall well-being.
2. Isolation and stigma can exacerbate mental health issues, making recovery challenging.
3. Access to mental health support services is crucial for healing and rebuilding self-esteem.
4. Therapeutic interventions can help survivors process trauma and develop coping strategies.
5. Community support groups can provide a sense of solidarity and understanding among survivors.

4. Point out the role of non-governmental organizations in addressing gender-based violence in India and discuss the challenges they face in their advocacy efforts.

1. NGOs provide critical support services, including counseling, legal aid, and shelter for survivors.
2. They play role in raising awareness and educating communities about gender-based violence.
3. Funding limitations and bureaucratic hurdles often restrict the scope of their initiatives.
4. NGOs face challenges in changing deep-rooted societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate violence.
5. Collaboration with government agencies can enhance their impact but may also lead to conflicts of interest.