The recent brutal rape and murder of a young resident doctor in Kolkata is a stark reminder of the pervasive gender violence that continues to plague our society. This tragic incident, like countless others across the globe, is not just a failure of the justice system—it’s a reflection of deeply ingrained societal attitudes toward women. From war-torn regions like Afghanistan and Syria to areas of political instability such as Bangladesh, women are frequently subjected to unspeakable violence. In India, too, the pattern is disturbingly familiar.
As we mourn this young woman and countless others who have suffered similar fates, we must also take a moment to reflect on how we can prevent such atrocities in the future. The answer lies not only in stricter laws or better enforcement but in a fundamental shift in how we raise our boys and define masculinity. We need to foster a culture where women are respected as equals, not seen as objects to be controlled or violated.
The Global Scale of the Problem
Gender-based violence is not confined to any one country or culture; it is a global epidemic. In conflict zones, rape is often used as a weapon of war, a means of exerting control over communities by dehumanizing women. In regions of anarchy, like Afghanistan, Syria, and Bangladesh, where law and order have broken down, women become easy targets for violence. In such settings, the power dynamics are skewed heavily against women, and violence against them becomes a tool for exerting dominance and control.
In India, the issue is no less severe. The incident in Kolkata is not isolated but part of a larger pattern where women, irrespective of their social standing or profession, are vulnerable to gender-based violence. The shocking aspect of this particular case is that the victim was an only child, leaving her parents in a state of unimaginable grief. For these parents, their daughter’s death is not just a personal loss but a devastating blow to their dreams and aspirations. In the face of such profound sorrow, words often fall short, but it is important to remind them that their daughter’s life and legacy will not be forgotten. Her memory should fuel our collective resolve to fight for a safer world for all women.
A New Perspective: Redefining Masculinity
To effectively combat gender violence, we need to address the root cause: toxic masculinity. This pervasive ideology equates manhood with aggression, dominance, and emotional suppression, leading many boys and men to develop distorted views of women and relationships. From a young age, boys are often conditioned to see women as objects rather than equals, which in turn fosters an environment where gender-based violence can thrive.
“Redefining masculinity” is not just about telling boys what not to do; it’s about showing them a better way to be men. It involves fostering traits like empathy, respect, and emotional intelligence—qualities that are too often dismissed as “unmanly.” Here are some practical steps that can be taken to achieve this:
1. Masculinity Workshops for Boys and Young Men
Implementation: Schools and community centers should host mandatory workshops that focus on healthy masculinity. These workshops would engage boys and young men in discussions about gender roles, respect, and the importance of emotional intelligence. Collaborating with NGOs, educators, and psychologists can ensure these workshops are impactful and sensitive to cultural contexts.
Impact: By addressing these issues early, we can reshape how young men view and interact with women, laying the foundation for more respectful and equitable relationships.
2. Empathy-Building Programs Using Virtual Reality (VR)
Implementation: Develop VR experiences that allow boys and men to experience life from a woman’s perspective. These could include simulations of everyday situations where gender discrimination or violence occurs. Partner with tech companies to create these programs and integrate them into school curriculums and corporate training.
Impact: VR’s immersive nature can create powerful emotional connections, making the lessons learned more personal and enduring.
3. Positive Male Role Model Campaigns
Implementation: Launch a nationwide campaign that showcases men who embody positive masculinity. These could be fathers, brothers, or public figures who are known for treating women with respect and advocating for gender equality. Media outlets and social media platforms can play a crucial role in amplifying these messages.
Impact: By promoting role models who break away from toxic masculinity, we can provide boys and young men with examples to aspire to, normalizing respect and equality in relationships.
Community and Governmental Responsibilities
While redefining masculinity is crucial, it is equally important that society and governments take proactive steps to support this cultural shift:
4. Community Accountability Circles
Implementation: Establish community-led circles where men who have committed or are at risk of committing gender-based violence can be held accountable in a supportive environment. These circles would focus on rehabilitation through education and peer support, with trained facilitators guiding the process.
Impact: This approach combines social pressure with support, offering men a chance to change their behavior in a constructive way rather than through punitive measures alone.
5. Digital Pledges and Commitment Platforms
Implementation: Create an online platform where men and boys can publicly pledge to stand against gender violence and promote gender equality. This platform would offer ongoing resources, challenges, and recognition to keep participants engaged.
Impact: Public commitments create accountability, and the sense of community can reinforce positive behaviors over time.
6. Government-Supported Policies for Equal Parenting
Implementation: Encourage male involvement in childcare and domestic roles by promoting policies like paternity leave and workplace flexibility for fathers. Media campaigns can normalize men’s participation in these roles, while community workshops can offer practical training.
Impact: Equal parenting breaks down traditional gender roles, fostering mutual respect and equality within the home, which translates into broader societal interactions.
A Collective Responsibility
Addressing gender violence requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond traditional measures. By redefining masculinity, promoting empathy, and holding communities accountable, we can begin to address the root causes of gender-based violence. However, this is not a task for governments or organizations alone—it is a collective responsibility that involves everyone.
We must work together to create a society where women are seen as equals, where boys are raised to respect and value women, and where gender violence is no longer tolerated. The loss of the young doctor in Kolkata should serve as a rallying cry for all of us to take action, ensuring that no other family has to endure such unimaginable pain. By addressing the problem at its roots, we can create a safer, more just world for everyone.
Neerja Bhatnagar
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