A call for social change

The tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata underlines the urgent need for a profound societal change in attitudes towards women

The recent public outcry in Kolkata sparked by the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College has turned into a significant and sustained protest. The gathering of young doctors outside the health department and the widespread public participation underscore the deep frustration over widespread violence against women in India. Reflecting on the August 9 incident, it is evident that the protest is not just about the person responsible. Despite the arrest of the perpetrator, the ongoing movement raises crucial questions about why the outrage remains so intense.

The fundamental problem, in my view, lies in the cultural context that enables such violence. It is not just about the actions of one individual, but a broader cultural context. The protests underscore the growing realisation that the problem is embedded in a culture that normalises and perpetuates violence against women.

The demonstrations in Kolkata have brought to light a critical aspect of this cultural problem: the normalization of rape and the way women are perceived and treated. In Indian culture, women are often valued primarily for their reproductive roles, with respect linked to their ability to be mothers. This perspective reduces women to their biological functions and overlooks their full humanity.

Rape culture is evident in societal behaviors and attitudes that tolerate and perpetuate violence against women. This deeply rooted culture is reflected in everyday interactions and institutional practices, demonstrating that the problem goes beyond individual actions.

The ongoing protests reflect an urgent need for profound cultural change. The movement in Bengal represents a broader call for cultural transformation. To effectively address the problem, we must fundamentally change societal norms and practices that contribute to a pervasive culture of violence and exploitation. As long as these cultural attitudes persist, rape will continue to occur.

The disturbing normalisation of sexual violence in Indian society is evident in a number of ways. For example, the fact that the name of the doctor murdered and raped in Bengal was trending on porn websites for a long period of time is a serious cultural problem. It shows how sexual violence is often exaggerated and dehumanised rather than addressed with the seriousness it deserves.

This criticism extends to societal behaviour and attitudes, as demonstrated by the public reaction to the Ujjain incident. The fact that such a violent act occurred in a crowded area and was watched and recorded by bystanders underlines the disturbing normalisation of sexual violence. Such incidents are met with alarming indifference.

Examining the cultural underpinnings of this problem reveals how cultural norms perpetuate gender inequality and violence. There are many subtle signs of rape culture that are often overlooked, such as the objectification of women and the normalization of harmful attitudes and practices.

Addressing this problem requires a profound cultural shift. This is not just about legal action or punishing perpetrators; it is about changing the norms and values ​​that are instilled from a young age. Culture is nurtured in our families and to counter rape culture, it is crucial to change the way we raise and educate our children.

In conclusion, the protests in Kolkata and similar movements across India are not just reactions to isolated incidents of violence, but a critical response to a deep-rooted cultural problem that normalizes and perpetuates sexual violence. This situation underscores the urgent need for fundamental cultural change. Unless we address the broader culture of rape, incidents of sexual violence will continue to plague our society.

(Acharya Prashant is a Vedanta teacher and women's rights advocate; the views expressed are personal.)