In India, women have played significant roles throughout history, contributing to the nation's growth and development in various fields. However, they have also faced numerous challenges and discrimination. The status of women in India has been a subject of debate and concern for decades. One disturbing incident that brought this issue to the forefront is the Manipur women stripped naked incident. This heinous act exposed the deep-rooted patriarchal mindset and the objectification of women. This essay will explore the question: Are women considered as property in India or are they recognized as human beings?
Historical Context
India's cultural heritage is rich, but it has also perpetuated certain customs and traditions that have led to the subjugation of women. Throughout history, the practice of Sati (widow burning) and child marriage reflected the oppressive treatment of women. Additionally, the deeply ingrained caste system has further marginalised certain groups of women. However, it is essential to recognize that India is a diverse country with various regional cultures and traditions. Progress has been made in women's rights, particularly through legal reforms and awareness campaigns.
The Manipur Women Stripped Naked Incident
The Manipur women stripped naked incident, which occurred in 2004, serves as a shocking example of the objectification and degradation of women in India. In this incident, several women protested against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Manipur. In response, security forces brutally attacked them, stripped them naked, and humiliated them publicly. This incident garnered international attention and condemnation, leading to widespread protests across the country. The incident sparked a broader discussion on the status of women in India and highlighted the challenges faced by women in conflict zones. It shed light on the abuse of power by security forces and the lack of accountability for their actions, especially when perpetrated against women.
Recently, we have heard and seen about another horrific incident that took place in Manipur, in this year (2023). Two months after the incidence occurred, it has now come into light after a video went viral. Three women were stripped naked and the young girl was raped by a mob. When her 19 year brother tried to save her, he was killed on the spot.
Who gave these men the rights to treat women however they like? It boils my blood as a women when I see such things happening to my sisters and mothers. Don't this so called 'men' have mothers, sisters and wives? Or should they be even called as 'Men? Would they sit still if such heinous acts were to happen to their loved ones? Has Humanity lost a complete hold over us or are we become animals with no emotions? Or should I just take the leverage to even say that animals are better than us 'humans?
Tears run through my eyes when I think even for a moment about how those women might have felt about this public humiliation? Their bodies being touched by these lewd hands, the gross feeling they might have felt. I cannot imagine. I can just empathize with my sisters. I could only pray. I could only cry as I write this. What wrong had they done? Was being alive as women their only mistake? How can anyone be stripped of their dignity?
As a Christian, we are to forgive others as God has forgiven us. But are we to even forgive this? I do not know. I find nothing in me by which I could forgive such men. We women deserve the respect, the protection, and is this the way that we are to be treated for being weaker section of the society?
My heart cries to the Lord "How long, God? Don't you see this? Won't you judge these men? The ungodly? I only have questions.
Women as Property in India
Despite legal advances and constitutional safeguards, women in India still face social and cultural prejudices that often treat them as property. The practice of dowry is a prime example of this. Dowry is a monetary or material gift given by the bride's family to the groom's family at the time of marriage. It is intended to help the couple start their new life together, but in many cases, it has become a means for families to demand money, gifts, or property from the bride's family. Failure to meet these demands can lead to harassment, dowry deaths, or abuse of the bride.
Furthermore, the prevalence of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, reflects the deep-rooted perception of women as mere property. Despite the existence of legal provisions such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, women often face challenges in seeking justice due to societal norms that trivialize or normalize such abuse.
Additionally, the preference for male children over female children persists in some regions, leading to the practice of female feticide or infanticide. This skewed sex ratio further perpetuates the objectification of women as commodities whose worth is determined solely by their ability to bear male offspring.
Justice For Women is Crucial
Women as Humans in India
Over the years, there have been significant strides towards recognizing women as human beings with equal rights and dignity. India's constitution guarantees gender equality and prohibits discrimination based on sex. The country has also ratified international agreements like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
Several key legislative reforms have been enacted to protect women's rights. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, brought substantial changes to the laws dealing with sexual offenses, making punishments more stringent and defining new offenses such as acid attacks and stalking. Additionally, the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017, extended paid maternity leave and provided more significant protection to working women. Women have excelled in various fields, breaking barriers and stereotypes. From politics to science, sports to arts, women in India have achieved remarkable milestones. Their contributions to society and the nation's progress have been significant.
I would mention, are these law even practiced? The government itself is corrupt. Again, all I am left is with questions and no answer. I leave for it to you, to think for yourself. Possibly, a way can be found if all women come together as one and fight for their sisters and 'real men' to support them. Honestly, looking at the incidences regarding women, I do not think women are considered humans but merely a property to be owned and discarded when not needed. A public matter of ridicule. And I am hoping this situation changes and India becomes a safe place for all women.
We have people like Arnab Goswani in 'the nation wants to know' show wanting to raise the awareness of these issues that is currently been faced by women in Manipur. But are we their voices been paid heed to, by our nation leaders? Today, this situation is limited to Manipur, we don't know tomorrow it might be our blood relatives or our cities and state facing this unjustified violence. Will we still justify these situations and stay silent?
Conclusion
The Manipur women stripped naked incident serves as a harrowing reminder of the challenges faced by women in India. While significant progress has been made towards recognizing women as human beings with equal rights, the patriarchal mindset and social norms continue to perpetuate the objectification of women.
To overcome this deep-rooted issue, a collective effort is required. Society must challenge and transform the prevailing norms that treat women as property. Education, awareness, and legal reforms play crucial roles in changing mindsets and ensuring a safer and more equal society for women.
Ultimately, recognizing and respecting the dignity and rights of women is not just a matter of legislation; it is a fundamental aspect of building a just, equitable, and progressive society for all. Women are not property but equal human beings deserving of respect, opportunities, and the freedom to live their lives without fear or discrimination. Only by acknowledging this truth and acting on it can India truly progress towards gender equality and women's empowerment.
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