Answer:

Introduction:

Sexual violence against women is a pervasive issue in many countries, including India. Increasing number of incidences of sexual violence is due to inbuilt patriarchal attitude of society which believes in women carrying traditional role of mothers, sisters and wife and be bearer of family and community name and honour. This attitude has manifested in seeing working women as ‘easy’ and of lower moral character hence objectifying them.

Body:

To tackle this menace, innovative measures can be adopted. Some of these measures are:

1. Community Mobilization: Community mobilization can play a crucial role in tackling sexual violence against women. By promoting community awareness and education, it is possible to create a culture of zero tolerance towards sexual violence.
2. Use of Technology: The use of technology can be a powerful tool in preventing and addressing sexual violence. The use of mobile apps, panic buttons, and GPS tracking systems can enable women to alert authorities and seek help in case of an emergency.
3. Empowerment Programs: Empowerment programs can help women become more self-reliant and assertive, enabling them to resist and report incidents of sexual violence.
4. Gender-sensitive Training: Gender-sensitive training programs can sensitize law enforcement officials, medical professionals, and other stakeholders to the nuances of gender-based violence.
5. Advocacy and Policy Reforms: Advocacy and policy reforms can help ensure that laws and policies are implemented effectively, leading to better protection of women’s rights.
6. Strict implementation of Vishaka guidelines by SC for countering sexual harassment in organizations – a govt mandated body must see to the implementation of the guidelines.

Conclusion:

Such measures can help create a safe and secure environment for women in the country. Ultimately, it is important to recognize that the fight against sexual violence is a collective responsibility, and it requires the participation and commitment of all stakeholders-individuals, communities, civil society organizations, and the government to make a meaningful and lasting impact.