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The NCW’s response to the Hathras case significantly influenced public perception, primarily through its perceived shortcomings and the broader implications of its actions. Here are the key aspects of this influence:
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Public Outrage and Criticism
- Delayed and Inadequate Response: The NCW was criticized for its slow reaction to the Hathras incident, where a 19-year-old Dalit woman was gang-raped and murdered. Many viewed the Commission’s initial silence as a failure to advocate for victims of sexual violence, leading to widespread disillusionment with its effectiveness in addressing women’s issues
- Victim-Blaming Remarks: Former NCW chairperson Mohini Giri and other critics highlighted that the Commission’s handling of the case reflected a broader trend of victim-blaming within its ranks. This perception was exacerbated by comments from NCW members that seemed to shift responsibility onto the victim, undermining the seriousness of the crime and potentially deterring other survivors from coming forward
Implications for Gender Justice
- Caste Dynamics: The case brought to light the intersection of caste and gender-based violence in India, with many accusing the NCW of not adequately addressing these complexities. The victim’s status as a Dalit woman highlighted systemic discrimination, and critics argued that the NCW failed to confront these issues head-on, leading to perceptions that it was out of touch with marginalized communities
- Call for Reforms: The public outcry following the Hathras case led to renewed demands for reforms within the NCW and other women’s commissions. Activists argued that the Commission needed to adopt a more proactive stance in advocating for victims’ rights and ensuring justice, rather than merely responding to incidents after they occur
- Caste Dynamics: The case brought to light the intersection of caste and gender-based violence in India, with many accusing the NCW of not adequately addressing these complexities. The victim’s status as a Dalit woman highlighted systemic discrimination, and critics argued that the NCW failed to confront these issues head-on, leading to perceptions that it was out of touch with marginalized communities
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