As
a woman and researcher deeply concerned about the rise in gender-based
violence, I am compelled to address a critical issue that has extensive
consequences for our state of Sikkim. The alarming increase in crimes against
women across India, including a recent high-profile assault on a 31-year-old female doctor in West Bengal, is not
just another statistic, following that other numerous cases are coming up! It
is a scary reminder of the dangers women face every day, even in places where
they should feel safe. This crisis is not just a distant problem but one that
directly impacts our community and asks for immediate attention and action.
While
Sikkim is frequently seen as a relatively safe state, the increasing incidence
of gender-based violence elsewhere threatens our cultural fabric as well. The
rise in crimes against women carries significant consequences beyond the
immediate harm inflicted on victims. Violence against women, anywhere is not
just about physical harm. It’s about the fear that creeps into our hearts, the
doubts that stop us from stepping out, speaking up, or pursuing our dreams.
It’s about the silent battles we fight every day, just to live with dignity
which further may cause a prevalent sense of fear and insecurity that can deter
women from pursuing various professions. In Sikkim, where women have made
significant progress towards gender equality, the influence of such violence
would be devastating. Women who work in traditionally male-dominated industries
like security, commerce, and hospitality etc, confront specific challenges. The
feelings of fear caused by such violence might limit their capacity to function
freely and confidently.
Sikkim
is a place where we take pride in our peaceful communities, where women are
respected, and where we believe that such horrors are far away. But the truth
is, no place is immune to the threat of violence against women. The spillover
effects of rising violence in neighbouring regions can affect Sikkim,
especially in a globalized world where media and migration facilitate the
spread of cultural and behavioural influences. Hence, we must remain vigilant
and positive in ensuring the safety and well-being of women.
Imagine
a Sikkim where women are afraid to walk alone, to work late, or to express
themselves freely. Imagine the loss to our community if women start holding
back, if girls stop dreaming big because they fear the world outside. This
vision of Sikkim is far from what we aspire for our community. To prevent such
a reality, we must foster a culture where safety and respect are supreme. This
involves not only creating secure environments but also ensuring that women
feel supported and valued in their professional and personal lives.
We
must act now, not just as a society, but as individuals. We need to create a
culture where every woman feels safe, where violence is not tolerated, and
where every act of aggression is met with strong and rapid justice. It starts
with education, teaching our children, both boys and girls, about respect,
equality, and the importance of standing up against violence. It continues with
community support, ensuring that every woman knows she is not alone, that help
is available, and that her voice matters.
As
women, we must also support each other, share our stories, and speak out
against the wrongs we see. Our voices are powerful, and when we raise them
together, they can bring about change. Let us demand better from our leaders,
from our law enforcement, and from our communities. Let us insist on a Sikkim
where women are not just safe, but empowered, free to live their lives to the
fullest.
A
comprehensive approach is essential to addressing gender-based violence
effectively. Evidence-based interventions focusing on women’s safety and
empowerment should be implemented. Education and awareness campaigns should be
integrated into schools and community programs, law enforcement must enforce a
zero-tolerance policy on crimes against women, and support systems for
survivors—such as counselling, legal aid, and rehabilitation—must be enhanced.
The
fight against violence is not an easy one, but it is a fight we must take on,
for ourselves and for the generations to come Sikkim has always been a land of
peace, progress, and pride. Let us work to maintain its reputation as a place
where every woman can live without fear and every girl can dream without
limits.
The
path forward requires a united stand against all forms of violence. It involves
not only strengthening legal frameworks and enforcement but also educating and
empowering individuals to challenge and change the cultural norms that spread
violence. Everyone must play a role in fostering a culture of respect and
equality. As Bhagavad Gita wisely states, "You have the right to
perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your
actions" (Chapter 2, Verse 47).
This teaching reminds us that our actions should be guided by duty and
righteousness, rather than personal gain. In the context of combating violence,
this means that we must act out of a sense of responsibility to uphold justice
and protect the vulnerable, regardless of immediate outcomes.
This
is our call to action. Together, we can create a Sikkim that stands as a beacon
of hope, safety, and respect for all women.
