In a recent address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the pressing issues of women’s safety and the protection of children in India, calling them serious societal concerns that demand immediate and effective action. His remarks underscore the government’s acknowledgment of the rising cases of violence against women and children, and the urgent need for a more proactive approach in tackling these issues.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that while several strict laws have been enacted in recent years to safeguard women, the mere existence of these laws is not enough. He pointed out that the effectiveness of these laws is closely tied to their implementation and the speed with which justice is delivered in cases of atrocities against women. “Today, atrocities against women, safety of children… are serious concerns of the society,” he stated, adding, “Many strict laws have been made in the country for the safety of women, but we need to make it more active.”
The Prime Minister’s call for swifter judicial processes reflects the growing frustration among the public regarding the delays and backlogs that often plague the legal system. These delays not only prolong the suffering of victims but also erode public confidence in the justice system. Modi emphasized that timely decisions in cases of violence against women would provide a greater sense of security to half of the country’s population, which comprises women.
India has seen a number of legislative and policy measures aimed at enhancing women’s safety, such as the introduction of the Nirbhaya Act, amendments to the criminal laws concerning rape, and the establishment of fast-track courts to deal with cases of sexual violence. Despite these efforts, incidents of violence against women continue to rise, pointing to gaps in the enforcement and efficiency of these measures.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks come at a time when there is growing demand for not only stricter laws but also for their rigorous implementation. Activists and experts have repeatedly stressed that the focus should be on creating an environment where women feel safe and protected, which can only be achieved if perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
In addition to legal reforms, there is also a need for societal change. Prime Minister Modi has often spoken about the importance of changing societal attitudes towards women, promoting gender equality, and ensuring that women are treated with dignity and respect. His recent comments reinforce this broader vision, suggesting that laws alone cannot solve the problem unless they are supported by a shift in societal norms.
As India continues to grapple with issues of gender-based violence, Prime Minister Modi’s call for a more active approach in the enforcement of laws serves as a reminder that the fight for women’s safety is far from over. It is a call to action for all stakeholders – from lawmakers to law enforcers, and from civil society to citizens – to work together to create a safer and more just society for women and children.
