Targets of violence

Women and children continue to be victims of violence for communal and political gains. No proper attempts to curb the menace are made. Students react.

Arpit Tyagi, B.Com Graduate 2017, Manav Rachna International University, Faridabad

The recent violence against women in communal strikes, lower sex ratio and lower mortality ratio proves that discrimination is on the rise. Owing to a patriarchal society and age-old traditions, women are often seen as elements to be suppressed. Children too are used as instruments for spreading violence. More political participation in promoting literacy and health sector is important.

Krishna PM, I, M.A. Economics, Central University of Kerala

Given the current patriarchal milieu, it is not surprising that women are the primary beings upon whom violence is inflicted. That women are objectified and deemed ‘property’ is a catalyst for such acts — for instance, patriarchal notions of violence are used to tarnish one’s ‘honour’. There is only one answer as to why women and children are perpetual scapegoats of communal and political violence — because it is easier to subjugate those who are already oppressed and to further strengthen the hierarchical power structure.

Kopal Goel, III B.A. (H) Journalism, Kamla Nehru College, Delhi University

Women and children are often ‘property’, and are used as a tactic during war to inflict terror, humiliation, and domination. There seems to be no end to violence against women and children which are for political and communal benefits. Inculcation of self-defence and sex education is required.

Nabiha Ilahi, Graduate 2017, English (H), St. Bede’s College, Shimla

There are some parts of society that will create wars out of religion and politics, and there is a need for more informed individuals to stop people from falling for political or communal fights over varying ideologies. Despite the increase in violence against women in India, the government fails to take strict action. In order to prevent women and children from being easy targets, strict codes of punishment should be established. The politics of a country may be regarded as important, but it is not above humanity.