Rape Cases In India - Statistics & State Wise Cases

“...in practise the standard for what constitutes rape is set not at the level of women’s experience of violation but just above the level of coercion acceptable to men.” ― Judith Lewis Herman

Over the last few decades, incredible growth has been seen in the country. From the launch of Digital India to making the nation a billion-dollar economy through the Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan (आत्मनिर्भर भारत अभियान). The problem is that the growth in India currently is like a double-edged sword.

Despite all the phenomenal growth, the violence against women India remains a thorn in our side. As per World Bank Data 2023, 48.4 per cent of the Indian population is female.

Read the article to learn about the hard-hitting reality of the crime against women in India, including information on laws against sexual violence India and women protection schemes India.

Read More: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme (बेटी बचाओ बेटी पढ़ाओ)

Government Schemes For Women Safety India

The government of India is working hard to acknowledge women’s safety-related problems and ways to strengthen women’s safety across the country. Some of the best women protection schemes India are listed below.

• Women Helpline Scheme: The government of India has taken a step in the very same direction by increasing a security layer in the lives of women by launching the Women Helpline Scheme managed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The govt scheme is a part of a broader initiative of the National Mission for Empowerment of Women, which is aimed at ensuring that women feel protected no matter what time of the day or location it might be by introducing access to support and emergency services 24/7. Women can get the benefits under this government scheme at the tap of a button by calling the Women’s Safety toll-free number 181.

• Ujjawala Scheme: The Ujjawala Scheme for victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation was launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development under the Government of India. This govt scheme was launched in 2007 to put a full stop to the trafficking of women and children. The Ujjawala scheme is based on 5 pillars, which are its functions and goals: Rescue, Prevention, Rehabilitation, Re-integration and Repatriation.

• Working Hostel Women Scheme: Through this initiative, the government aims to promote safe and reliable stay options and provide daycare facilities for female employees who stay away from home. The Working Hostel Women Scheme was launched in 1972 but has evolved with multiple reforms.

• One-Stop Centre Scheme: According to a report by the National Crime Bureau, there were more than 4 lakh women who reported a case of violence against them. Violence against women comes in different forms, like domestic violence, sexual assault, honour killings, dowry-related abuse, acid attacks, and much more. To tackle this, the Ministry of Women and Child Development launched the Sakhi One Stop Centre Scheme on April 1, 2015, to provide support for women against the violence that they face.

Steps To Make Women Feel Safe

The numbers we are witnessing are the reported cases; the actual data is still not on the ground level. A problem this big can only be solved through systematic change with the help of a multi-faceted approach.

Education from childhood and intervention at the home and community level are a must for a gender-transformative approach.

A gender-responsive approach can be done by engaging men and women together through various strategies.

Other ways that could make a difference are changing societal norms, improving policy and law, giving survivors a chance at a better life, creating nationwide campaigns, and educational workshops.

The government of India has taken various steps to make women feel safe. Initiatives like Mahila Shakti Kendra (महिला शक्ति केंद्र), One Stop Centre, Universalisation of Women Helpline, Ujjawala Scheme (उज्ज्वला योजना), and Mahila e-Haat are helping women feel empowered, equal, and secure.

Many civil societies, Self-Help Groups, ASHA workers, and more are playing a crucial role in awakening society to the hideous crimes of sexual assaults and violence.

Conclusion

Even with such high punishment, crime is still roaring. It is time to get out and take the first step towards a better world. Women are allowed to feel safe, be it at work, on the road, in the neighbourhood, or at home. Educating yourself and the people around you will be the first step.

Stay safe, stay educated, and stay connected with Jaagruk Bharat as we are working day and night to bring awareness in society and make people realise that they have a voice, a chance, and the fundamental rights of humans.