Shimla, May 16
Bharatiya Janavadi Mahila Samiti (BJMS) staged a protest today against the alarming rise in violence against women and the surge in cases of rape and sexual exploitation of women and girls across the nation and the state. Women from various parts of Shimla city actively participated in the demonstration.
Addressing the gathering, Falma Chauhan, the State Secretary of Janwadi Mahila Samiti, expressed grave concern over the escalating incidents of rape and violence against women and young girls over the past decade. She highlighted the distressing statistic that an average of 88 women are subjected to rape every day nationwide. Drawing attention to a recent incident in Karnataka, she condemned the alleged sexual assaults involving Prajwal Revana and his father, lamenting that despite the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the government, the accused had managed to flee the country.
Sonia Shabrawal, the State Treasurer and District Secretary of Janwadi Mahila Samiti, echoed Chauhan’s sentiments, emphasizing the relentless rise in cases of violence, exploitation, and rape against women. She noted with concern that what was once considered distant news from other states now hits closer to home, with Himachal Pradesh witnessing a disturbing surge in such incidents. Shabrawal highlighted the pervasive sense of insecurity experienced by women in various settings, including schools, temples, workplaces, and even on regular walking routes, stressing that women of all ages find themselves vulnerable to physical and mental harassment.
Meena Kapoor, the District President, recounted harrowing instances of women being targeted in public spaces in broad daylight, including incidents of molestation and rape even within temple premises. She decried the lack of safety for women, citing cases of deceased women found in forests, partially clothed, and the distressing trend of sexual violence against young girls. Kapoor criticized the perceived leniency of the central and state governments towards perpetrators of such crimes, accusing them of shielding rapists and criminals and organizing rallies in their support.
In response to these grave concerns, the All India Democratic Women’s Committee issued a demand for stringent measures in cases involving violence against women and sexual harassment. They advocated for denying bail to accused individuals and imposing the harshest punishments possible. Furthermore, they urged the Central Government to take immediate steps to repatriate Prajwal and ensure that the perpetrators face the full extent of the law.
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