There is behaviour that cannot be defended no matter what political compulsions there may be, especially regarding rape. Unfortunately, there are some political leaders who do not seem to have even the basic morality required in this regard. They tend to believe that it is their duty to defend their supporters regardless of the crime committed. In recent years, this has been seen in the manner West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sought to cover up a series of horrific incidents by taking shelter behind identity politics. She has developed expertise in this to a high level of sophistication and succeeds in deceiving many of her followers.
However, it is the Samajwadi Party that takes the cake in this regard. From the notorious comment ‘boys will be boys’ by the late Mulayam Singh Yadav, to the latest attempt by present day leaders to try and create confusion over the alleged rape of a minor in Ayodhya, there is the usual victim blaming and misogyny. What has compelled the growth of such a political culture, particularly in UP? Are the people actually taken in by such chicanery, or do they agree with this attitude towards women? One can only imagine the kind of governance such a party provides when in power.
What are the deficiencies in India’s value system that allows such an attitude? It is not just the daughter from a deprived background who faces such discriminatory behaviour, even a well- educated Rajya Sabha MP faces obstacles in obtaining justice. There is no doubt that the deficiencies in the legal system already make matters difficult for victims of sexual offences. The amount of time it takes to obtain justice makes life exceedingly difficult for such persons regardless of their social and economic backgrounds. Having to face the callous attitude of those in power further enhances their suffering.
It is important, therefore, that proactive measures be taken at every level to provide a secure environment for women. This is possible only if there is absolutely zero tolerance for any kind of insensitivity in dealing with sexual offences, be it among officials, the media, the political discourse, or anything else. These standards should be strictly enforced. Ultimately, however, it is for the voters to consider what kind of person they are electing to political office. The future of their daughters is at stake.
