Crimes Against Women

In many countries and cultures, women and girls are born into a system steeped with inequality and discrimination. However crimes and violence against women are pervasive irrespective of culture, socio-economic status, education, ethnicity, age or caste. Some practices of discrimation and violence against women such as dowry, child marriage, sati purdah system, I’ll treatment of widows, female foeticide and more have been passed down over centuries and are still practiced by many violating the basic human rights. Crimes against women have been recognised as a serious constraint to the country’s development. When a significant portion of the country is mitigated, the country cannot further to progress. 

 

Crimes against women have only increased in the past years. With all the social stigmas and taboos attached, women are not able to voice their opinions freely let alone report crimes unafraid. It is not okay to be exploited and you are not alone! Contact our helpline number to seek help and guidance. 

 

According to the UN data report, 1 in 3 females experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, most frequently by an intimate partner. 

Only 52% of women married or in a union freely make their own decisions about sexual relations, contraceptive use and health care. 

71% of all human trafficking victims worldwide are females, and 3 out of 4 of these women and girls are sexually exploited. It it important to note that the official statistics reflect only a a glimpse of the actual magnitude of crimes. 

 

Hothur Foundation is working towards a violence free future with empowered and free women by uplifting women with economic opportunities, educating children, engaging men in jobs. 

 

Dowry

 

The Dowry Prohibition Act of India (1961) defines dowry as “any property or valuable security given or agreed to be given, directly or indirectly. 

The dowry system has been prevalent in India since centuries where the patriarchal society obliges the bride’s family to meet the demands of the groom or his family. Dowry has been illegal in India since the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 however it is widely practiced often leaving women vulnerable to domestic violence, harassment and even death. 

Dowry related violence arises when the groom or his family seeks continued money or goods and the bride’s family is unwilling or unable to pay. The fear of retaliation discourages abused women to report the crimes subjected to her. 

 

Sexual Harassment

 

Sexual harassment is not just rape but any mere gesture, verbal or non verbal that causes even minute discomfort. Sexual harassment can have long standing mental, emotional and psychological effects on the mind causing the victim to be traumatised or even worse, death. It can take up a number of forms such as eve teasing, staring, molestation or making snide remarks and commenting. Another common form of sexual harassment occurs in the work place. 

 

Most cases of sexual harassment go unreported due to shame, fear, blame perpetuating the occurrence of these crimes. To overcome this grave issue, children must be given education explicitly being aware about the difference between good and bad touch.  

 

Rape 

 

India has seen some of the most horrifying rape statistics and stories especially during the recent years. The disclosure has led to people believing India, a country of gods and religions is no country for women. A majority of the blame can be put on the upbringing, lack of education and the experiences that are inculcated in young minds. 

 

Although men and boys experience gender based violence, women around the world are disproportionately victimised by rape and other other sexual assaults. The traumatising repucissuons lasting a life time.