Page 622 - SSB Interview: The Complete Guide, Second Edition

36. CRIMES AGAINST WOMEN IN THE

INDIAN CONTEXT

“There is one universal truth, violence against women is never

acceptable, never excusable, and never tolerable.” — Ban Ki-

moon

1. Submissive, subservient, slaves and victims of physical and mental

abuse is the quintessential image of an Indian woman permeated down
the ages by the feudalistic and tyrannical mindset, misogynist Indian

male who was always given to believe that a woman is a lesser mortal

whose purpose in life on this earth is to give in to the needs and
demands of the MEN!

2. This harsh reality is backed by solid empirical data maintained by the
various law enforcement agencies and the NGOs/activists who have

been fighting this uphill and almost impossible battle in the Indian
context. Although we have come a long way in our gender equality

campaigns, relentless perseverance and persistence is required to

penetrate a stubborn and obstinate Indian mindset.

History

3. The status of Indian women has seen a decline over a period and

historically, the decline can be traced as follows:

a. Ancient India: Surprisingly, the Indian women in this period were
better off than their compatriots of Rome and Greece. The women

could pursue studies and enjoyed equality and freedom even in

academic pursuits.

b. Medieval Period: Although the steady decline of women began in
the later Vedic period, the Medieval Era saw the complete