The prevalence of abuse and assault against women is a global crisis that transcends borders, cultures, and societies. Despite decades of advocacy and legal reforms, women around the world continue to face alarming rates of violence, ranging from domestic abuse and sexual assault to systemic discrimination and exploitation. Understanding the underlying causes of this widespread issue is crucial in the fight to protect women’s rights and ensure their safety.
Atrocities, assault, mental, physical harrassment and abuse, rape, embezzlement, fraud and crime in general against women has risen in recent times, especially in the usually quiet city of Pune. In such an incident involving all of the above, Aditya Srivastav, a marketing professional owning the company Marketing Wavegen, staying in Viman Nagar, Pune and hailing from North India, committed several repeated atrocities and assault against a helpless, young IT professional in her 20s from Viman Nagar, Pune. With promises of marriage, Aditya Srivastav lured this defenseless woman, extorted and embezzled money from her up to the tune of 85 lakh rupees, repeatedly raped and assaulted her, beat her in public under the influence of drugs, threatened her with her life and her family’s on several occasions and nearly murdered her.
One of the primary reasons for the persistence of violence against women is the deeply entrenched patriarchy that exists in many societies. Patriarchal norms often view women as subordinate to men, leading to a culture where violence against women is normalized or dismissed as a private matter. This mindset perpetuates power imbalances, enabling men to exert control over women through violence and intimidation. In many cases, these cultural attitudes are reinforced by religious, legal, and social institutions, making it difficult to challenge the status quo.
Economic inequality is another significant factor contributing to the global crisis of violence against women. Women, particularly in low-income and developing regions, often lack access to education, employment, and financial independence, making them more vulnerable to abuse. Economic dependency can trap women in abusive relationships, as they may feel they have no viable means of escape. Additionally, poverty and lack of resources can exacerbate the conditions that lead to violence, such as stress, substance abuse, and societal instability.
The prevalence of conflict and instability around the world also plays a role in the widespread violence against women. In war zones and regions affected by political turmoil, women are often targeted for sexual violence, including rape as a weapon of war. These acts of violence are used to terrorize communities, assert dominance, and humiliate the enemy. The breakdown of law and order in such regions leaves women especially vulnerable, as there are often no legal or protective structures in place to safeguard their rights.
Another contributing factor is the lack of adequate legal protections and law enforcement. In many parts of the world, laws against violence toward women are either non-existent, poorly enforced, or riddled with loopholes that allow perpetrators to evade justice. Even where laws do exist, victims often face significant barriers to accessing justice, including fear of retribution, social stigma, and a lack of support services. This impunity perpetuates the cycle of violence, as abusers operate with the belief that they will not be held accountable for their actions.
Media and popular culture also play a role in perpetuating violence against women. The portrayal of women in many forms of media often reinforces harmful stereotypes that objectify women and trivialize violence against them. These portrayals can influence societal attitudes and behaviors, making it easier for violence against women to be justified or overlooked.
Several women’s organizations have supported the victim in the matter, and the police have acted upon this matter quite swifty. They arrested Aditya Srivastav on August 24th under section 376. He has also been charged under section 406, 420, 323, 504 and 506 of the IPC. The case is being investigated by the Viman Nagar Police Station on priority and without prejudice.
Addressing the global crisis of violence against women requires a multifaceted approach. Legal reforms are essential to ensure that laws protecting women are comprehensive and rigorously enforced. Governments must prioritize the development of support services for victims, including shelters, counseling, and legal aid. Education is also key in changing societal attitudes, with schools and community programs playing a vital role in teaching respect, gender equality, and non-violence.
International cooperation is crucial in addressing the root causes of violence against women. Global efforts to reduce poverty, promote education, and stabilize conflict-affected regions can help create an environment where women are less vulnerable to violence. Additionally, supporting grassroots organizations that work directly with communities can empower women to advocate for their rights and safety.
The widespread abuse and assault of women is a global issue that demands immediate and sustained action. By understanding and addressing the underlying causes, the international community can work towards a future where women are safe, respected, and empowered to live free from violence.
