In recent days, the nation has been deeply shaken by the tragic case of murder in Kolkata, where a trainee doctor was brutally raped before being killed. The victim was discovered in an unconscious, semi-naked state on a wooden platform in a seminar room within the emergency building.
This heinous crime has sparked outrage across the country, particularly given the victim’s role as a doctor who had dedicated her life to saving others, only to lose her own in such a horrific manner.
The incident has galvanized public outcry since August 9, 2024, with nationwide protests demanding justice for the victim and calling for the safety of women in the workplace.
However, what began as a movement for justice and protection has unfortunately shifted into a broader “Men vs. Women” debate, diverting attention from the core issues.
It is imperative to recognize that rape is a universal issue that transcends gender. It is not merely a question of men versus women but a grave matter of humanity versus inhumanity.
This issue highlights the dire lack of safety, the urgent need for comprehensive sex education, the shortcomings of our judicial and administrative systems, and the political crises that allow such atrocities to occur.
The unified demand for stricter laws can only be a solution for this country to become a safer place, free from such heinous crimes. Therefore, this article will explore the psychological factors underlying why rape occurs and how the discourse has, regrettably, devolved into Men vs. Women debate, rather than focusing on the broader and more pressing issues that need to be addressed.
Why Social Media Has Become a Battleground for the Gender Wars?
The ongoing debate between men and women underscores a critical societal issue i.e. the pervasive problem of rape and sexual violence, which affects both women and men.
In this digital age, it is evident that while many individuals are actively participating in protests, a larger proportion prefers to engage by posting pictures and comments online.
While the number of protesters is not my primary concern, I am troubled by the fact that online discourse often deviates from the core issue, i.e. the prevalence of rape culture and sexual violence. This should not be framed as a gender war; such heinous acts are a result of the distorted mentality of the perpetrators.
The solution for such a mentality is sex education which creates awareness and understanding. The education teaches individuals the importance of consent, boundaries, and respectful behaviour. It underscores that mutual consent is vital in all sexual activities.
A clear “No” unequivocally means “No.” Consent must be freely given; if it is obtained through coercion, deception, or undue influence, it constitutes rape.
If an individual fails to grasp the concept of consent, their culpable intent becomes highly questionable. Research indicates that an individual with a criminal mindset will likely remain a perpetrator of sexual violence, even if subjected to long-term imprisonment.
Therefore, stringent laws must be enacted to address and punish such criminal behaviour effectively.
Let’s understand the fear of an individual from the opposite gender!
As per National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, on average, 90 rapes were reported daily in 2022. Furthermore, it is estimated that approximately 70% of rape cases remain unreported.
Incidents of rape and sexual assault are pervasive, with reports emerging daily from various regions, whether it be in a particular country, state, city, or locality.
Victims span all age groups, including infants, minors, teenage girls, and elderly women, who are subjected to rape, sexual harassment, or even murder by individuals or groups. The prevalence of sexual harassment is alarmingly high, with many women having encountered such incidents at some point in their lives.
While statistical evidence predominantly identifies women as the primary victims of rape, it is crucial to recognize that men, including teenage boys, also experience sexual violence. Men may also be subjected to false accusations of rape.
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Sexual assault is not confined to any particular age, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and male survivors of sexual violence may experience similar emotional and psychological reactions as other survivors.
However, they face additional challenges due to societal attitudes and stereotypes associated with masculinity. The increasing frequency of reported rape cases has led to concerns that such acts are becoming normalized within Indian society.
The trauma arising from sexual violence can lead to significant psychological insecurity and challenges in forming trusting relationships with individuals of any gender. This trauma has fueled a broader societal debate, particularly on social media, regarding gender relations, exacerbated by the current heinous crime.
Rape has historically been used as a tool of humiliation and domination during armed conflicts. During World War II, sexual violence against women was a tragic and significant aspect of the conflict in Europe, persisting both during and after the war. Such acts reflected the brutal nature of war and the use of rape as an instrument of power, humiliation, and revenge.
In more recent conflicts, including the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict, instances of sexual violence have also been reported, albeit less documented compared to the atrocities of World War II. These acts of violence are part of a broader spectrum of human rights violations that occur in areas of protracted conflict.
Sexual violence in conflicts serves as a stark reminder of the inherent brutality of war and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect civilians and address the consequences of such crimes.
Contemporary Issues of Sexual Violence:
1. The Manipur Incident (May 2023)
Two women were reportedly stripped, paraded naked, and subjected to gang rape by a mob in the northeastern state of Manipur, India. This incident, now widely known as the Manipur case, arose from a dispute linked to the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe status.
This demand led to escalating tensions with the Kuki-Zo tribal community, who feared a reduction in their entitlements and advocated for separate state administration. The violence in this case cannot be simplistically categorized as a gender-based issue; rather, it is indicative of a deeper conflict between two communities where women were tragically used as instruments of revenge.
2. The Delhi Rape Case (2012)
The infamous Nirbhaya gang rape case, which occurred in Delhi in 2012, culminated in the execution of the convicted rapists after seven years of legal proceedings. In this brutal incident, the perpetrators inserted a rod into the victim’s body, causing severe injuries that led to her death.
The accused, who came from impoverished and uneducated backgrounds, justified their actions by blaming societal norms and the victim’s attire, claiming that women who wear short dresses or venture out at night are at fault. T
his case is not merely an issue of gender conflict; it highlights the depraved mindset of the perpetrators, rooted in ignorance and inhumanity. It is crucial to note the extreme cruelty inflicted upon the victim, emphasizing that this crime was an egregious violation of human dignity.
3. The Hathras Incident (Uttar Pradesh)
In Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, a 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly gang raped by men belonging to an upper-caste community. The victim was left to die in the fields, and her admission to a hospital was delayed due to the police’s initial refusal to file a First Information Report (FIR).
This case underscores a gross failure on the part of the authorities in fulfilling their duty to protect citizens. Numerous studies have shown that the mentality of rapists is often influenced by illiteracy and deeply ingrained societal prejudices.
Rapists have claimed that a woman’s attire provokes sexual violence; however, this argument is refuted by cases such as the rape of a three-year-old child and the Hathras incident, where the victim was attacked in the morning. The phenomenon of gang rape, which is premeditated and planned, exposes the irrational and criminal mindset of the perpetrators.
Thus, the focus of our societal debate should not be on a simplistic men-versus-women narrative, but on the urgent need for educating society about consent, respect, and human rights.
The LGBTQ++ community, like any other group, is not exempt from the grave issue of sexual violence, including rape. This reality underscores that sexual violence is a universal issue rather than one confined to traditional male versus female dynamics.
Our society has already stereotyped this community, leading to a situation where the unique vulnerabilities and sexual offences faced by these individuals often remain unreported due to discrimination and the normalization of such abuse.
By acknowledging the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ++ individuals, society can better address the needs of all victims and work towards more effective, universal solutions to combat sexual violence.
One significant factor contributing to the propagation of harmful ideologies is the pervasive and unregulated access to pornographic content on social media platforms. The entertainment industry also plays a role in normalizing such content under the guise of entertainment.
Rather than receiving proper sex education, society is being exposed to detrimental materials that skew perceptions and behaviour.
Therefore, there is a compelling need to impose stringent restrictions on such content to protect societal values and promote a healthier understanding of human sexuality.
Sexual Assault of Men and Boys
The issue of sexual assault against men and boys is often overlooked, much like the subject of sex education. Unfortunately, it remains a topic that is seldom discussed.
Many male survivors of sexual assault may experience feelings of shame or self-doubt, stemming from the belief that they should have been “strong enough” to resist the assailant.
Additionally, those who experienced physiological responses such as erection or ejaculation during the assault may find themselves confused, questioning the implications of these involuntary reactions. It is important to understand that such physiological responses are natural and do not indicate consent, desire, or enjoyment of the assault in any manner.
If you have experienced such an incident, it is crucial to recognize that you bear no responsibility for what occurred, and you are not alone in your experience.
Statistical Data of the Cases of Rapes in India
Rape can never be a mistake it’s always a crime. Rape is not a violent manifestation of sexual behaviour but a sexual manifestation of violent behaviour.
Understanding the Psychology of Rapists
The increasing incidence of rape cases in India suggests a concerning trend towards the normalization of rape culture. Public discourse often devolves into debates of “men versus women,” rather than focusing on the underlying motivations and psychological factors that drive individuals to commit such heinous acts.
While society frequently discusses the appropriate punishments for rapists and the precautions women should take, there is a significant lack of emphasis on understanding the psychology of rapists. Addressing the root causes of rape necessitates a deep exploration of the rapist’s mindset.
Simply executing a few perpetrators will not resolve the pervasive issue; it is imperative to comprehend the mentality of rapists, including those incarcerated, to formulate effective preventive measures.
Research, including studies conducted by criminologists such as Madhumita Pandey, who surveyed rapists at Tihar Jail, reveals alarming insights into the psyche of rapists. The findings indicate that many rapists exhibit no remorse for their actions and often deny having committed any crime.
They frequently blame the victims and lack a fundamental understanding of the concepts of rape and consent. This cognitive dissonance—a psychological phenomenon where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, or behaviours conflict—illustrates that many rapists operate under a distorted belief system.
They objectify women, view their sexual urges as uncontrollable, and commit acts of rape without recognizing the gravity of their actions.
Rapists can be broadly categorized into two types: opportunistic rapists and specialized rapists. Opportunistic rapists exploit situations where they believe they can commit rape without facing consequences.
This category also includes individuals who perpetrate sexual violence within marital relationships. Specialized rapists, on the other hand, derive satisfaction from inflicting harm on others. Whether known or unknown to the victim, both types of rapists act with the intent and belief that they can exercise power over their victims.
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Further, numerous reports and stories highlight instances where individuals suffering from serious mental health conditions, specifically psychopaths, engage in heinous acts such as rape and murder for personal gratification. This condition represents a significant factor contributing to the occurrence of such crimes within society.
Society must acknowledge and address these severe mental health disorders. Efforts must be made to raise awareness regarding psychopaths and similar mental conditions.
Individuals diagnosed with these disorders should be provided with specialized rehabilitation and treatment, and society must avoid stigmatizing or stereotyping such conditions.
Establishing dedicated rehabilitation centres for these individuals is essential for their proper care and recovery. Unless we examine the underlying causes of such crimes, we will not be able to effectively combat these grievous offences.
Prime Remedial Measures
A nurturing approach to parenting plays a pivotal role in fostering a stronger and more harmonious society by raising compassionate, responsible, and well-rounded individuals.
It has come to light, through both news reports and depictions in Bollywood, that young girls may face instances of sexual assault within the confines of their own homes, with perpetrators including siblings or relatives.
Such grievous acts often stem from a failure in effective parenting. It is the fundamental duty of parents to instil in their children the values of mutual respect and equality, irrespective of gender.
Parents must educate their children on the concepts of consent, respect for the opposite gender, the distinction between appropriate and inappropriate touch, and the principles of humanity and morality.
Social change begins at home, and by committing to self-improvement, individuals possess the power to influence and transform society at large.
Moreover, comprehensive sex education is essential for empowering individuals with knowledge about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health. It serves to dispel misconceptions, encourage healthy behaviours, and provide individuals with the necessary tools to make informed decisions.
By addressing critical subjects such as consent, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections, sex education fosters a respectful and responsible approach to sexual relationships.
Ultimately, comprehensive sex education promotes safer, more respectful relationships, thereby contributing positively to the welfare of society as a whole.
Conclusion
The critical question remains: Are men inherently the problem, or does society need comprehensive re-education? While laws are dynamic and evolve, amendments to rape laws often occur only after a tragedy has taken place.
It is essential to proactively consider all perspectives and implement changes before another individual suffers. Respect for all genders is paramount, and raising our voices to support victims is a moral imperative.
The needed transformation must begin within our homes, education system, and political framework. It is time to educate both genders on the distinctions between them and the importance of sex education. Understanding the psychology of offenders and promoting widespread awareness of sex education are crucial steps.
The prevalence of rape in India underscores a deeper issue rooted in the flawed mentality of rapists, who act out of revenge or ignorance due to a lack of proper education.
Ending rape culture requires a societal shift that transcends gender debates and addresses rape as a universal issue. This change must originate from within our own homes. Let us commit to fostering this change.
Authored by Krithika Gupta, a 2nd year Law student at Calcutta University.
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