The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): From 2017 to 2022, a startling 275 cases of custodial rape were registered in India, alarming data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveals. These incidents primarily occurred in Uttar Pradesh, which reported 92 cases, closely followed by Madhya Pradesh with 43. These cases signify instances of rape committed by those in positions of authority, such as police officers, jailers, or others responsible for the lawful custody of women.
This disturbing trend highlights a systemic issue in law enforcement, where those entrusted with public safety misuse their power to commit sexual violence against women in their custody. Activists and experts point to a dire lack of sensitivity and accountability in the system, with police personnel, public servants, and even armed forces members being implicated.
The Indian Penal Code section 376 (2) specifically addresses custodial rape, dealing with abuses of power and authority to commit these heinous acts. Poonam Muttreja, executive director of the Population Foundation of India, emphasizes the unique risks present in custodial settings, where state agents exploit their power dynamics to coerce or force sexual acts.
Such violations often involve women taken into custody under the guise of protection, such as trafficking victims or domestic violence survivors, further exacerbating their plight. Muttreja identifies a combination of patriarchal norms, inadequate training in gender sensitivity for law enforcement, and societal stigma against victims as key factors contributing to this crisis.
To combat these crimes, Muttreja advocates for a victim-centric approach, robust legal frameworks, and sweeping institutional reforms. She stresses the need for government action, encompassing legal reform, enhanced law enforcement training, societal norm changes, and stronger accountability mechanisms. Partnerships with NGOs, civil society, and community groups are also crucial in forming a comprehensive response.
Pallabi Ghosh, a Nguvu Change Leader, shares firsthand accounts of survivors alleging rape by police officers. She points out the prevalent culture of impunity and victim-blaming in law enforcement, which severely impedes justice. Ghosh emphasizes the urgent need for police sensitization and legal avenues to hold perpetrators accountable, lamenting the challenges in reporting and prosecuting such crimes without explicit identification of the perpetrators.
This situation calls for immediate and decisive action to address the deep-rooted issues enabling such abuses of power, ensuring justice and protection for the most vulnerable in society.