India, despite its strides toward modernisation and gender equality, continues to grapple with horrifying instances of sexual violence. The recent Kolkata rape case stands as a stark reminder of the deep-seated issues within Indian society that contribute to the subjugation of women and the perpetuation of sexual crimes.
This incident has shaken the nation to its core, but it also raises uncomfortable questions that we must confront. Criminological theories provide valuable insights into the subjugation of women and the perpetuation of sexual crimes, highlighting the need for societal and individual introspection.
It’s easy to dismiss the rapist as a deviant human, but I wonder if a part of that deviancy is in all of us. He represents the violence and subjugation that we carry within ourselves. This incident, which has sparked national outrage, reflects behaviours and attitudes that many of us see, ignore, or even perpetuate in the confines of our homes and relationships every day.
Tragically, countless other cases go unreported and unheard — acts of sexual violence that occur every day, both within and outside the home, in spaces that should be safe, whether physical or emotional, often inflicted by those we “love” and consider “family”. Every time you expect your wife to cook or do the dishes when the household help takes a day off, you’re perpetuating a problem.
Each time you assume your bhabhi (sister in law) will serve the family at a gathering, ensuring the men eat first, you’re endorsing a toxic tradition. When you choose your daughter over your son to handle a household chore, you’re reinforcing harmful stereotypes. And when you silence yourself, submitting in the name of maryada (honour) and lihaaz (respect), you become complicit in this systemic subjugation.
These seemingly small, everyday acts are not just benign traditions; they are the bricks that build the walls of oppression. The violence we witness in the public sphere is but a reflection of these private, normalised inequities — instances of gendered expectations and silent submission that we often overlook or accept as part of our culture.Is it enough to share a post or forward a message when the real battle is within ourselves, in our homes, in the choices we make, and in the behaviours we accept?
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Radical feminist criminology highlights how patriarchal power structures are inherently designed to maintain male dominance, often through the control and subjugation of women. In this context, sexual violence is not just an isolated criminal act but a systemic tool of oppression that reinforces gender hierarchies by instilling fear and ensuring women’s submission.
Cultural feminism emphasises how societal norms and prescribed gender roles contribute to women’s subjugation. In societies like India, women are expected to be passive and submissive, while men are encouraged to be assertive and dominant. These gender norms create an environment where women are vulnerable to exploitation and often blamed for their victimisation.
Social learning theory offers insight into how these gendered behaviours are perpetuated across generations. Boys are socialised to assert dominance, while girls are taught to be compliant and nurturing, reinforcing a culture where male aggression is normalised. Labeling theory examines how societal labels and stereotypes contribute to the subjugation of women and the perpetuation of sexual violence.
Women who deviate from traditional gender norms are often stigmatised, leading to victim-blaming, where they are held responsible for the violence inflicted upon them due to their perceived failure to conform to societal expectations. The Kolkata rape case, like many others, revealed troubling aspects of societal responses to sexual violence.
Public discourse and legal responses are often marred by victim-blaming, where the actions, clothing, or behaviour of the victim are scrutinised rather than the actions of the perpetrator. This reflects deep-rooted gender biases that prioritise the preservation of traditional gender roles over the pursuit of justice for the victim.
At the individual level, many members of society contribute to the perpetuation of harmful gender norms, whether consciously or unconsciously. Everyday actions, language, and attitudes can reinforce stereotypes that place women in subordinate roles and excuse or minimise the severity of sexual violence.
For instance, dismissing sexual harassment as “boys being boys” or questioning a victim’s credibility based on her lifestyle choices are ways in which individuals perpetuate the culture of victim-blaming and gender inequality. Every individual needs to introspect and consider how their beliefs, behaviour, and language might contribute to the problem of gender-based violence. It is essential to challenge gender stereotypes, advocate for equality, and support victims of sexual violence. Individuals must recognise that the fight against sexual violence and gender inequality is not just the responsibility of the legal system or activists but requires collective action from all members of society.
The Kolkata rape case serves as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted issues within Indian society that contribute to gender-based violence. To address these issues effectively, it is essential for every individual to actively work towards creating a more just and equitable society. By challenging stereotypes, supporting victims, and advocating systemic change, individuals can contribute to the prevention of sexual violence and the promotion of gender equality in India. The answer to this crisis lies within us.
Bhoomika Choudhury is a labour rights researcher.
This piece was first published on The India Cable – a premium newsletter from The Wire & Galileo Ideas – and has been updated and republished here. To subscribe to The India Cable, click here.
