Crime against women is rising while agencies to tackle that are ineffective,warn Goa women's collectives&civil society groups

Prakash Kamat

Panaji,August 30- A meeting of organisations and individuals working on crimes against women held to take stock of the unabated crimes against women on Thursday here took note of the brazen multiple violence against women in public places indicating that safety in public spaces for women has collapsed. 

Assault, rape, kidnapping, murder has become a norm. Government institutions monitoring crimes know that most attacks are pre planned. That group of men prowl at beaches, public gardens and attack young people in relationships meeting outdoors, blackmail them resulting in heinous acts. The government has failed to take responsibility of maintaining law and order in public spaces. 

With public uproar, while some cases get highlighted, many especially those taking place at homes and workplaces go unregistered.

Absence of quick action has resulted in the eroding of trust and fear of the law, which has encouraged crimes. Women’s right to work, pursue education, creative pursuits have been affected. Restrictions are being put on her instead of the perpetrators who roam freely.

The meeting critiqued the inadequate response at the police stations and condemned the mental violence inflicted on complainants and their families with their patriarchal attitudes by police in some instances, victim blaming, admonishing and even vulgar behavior amounting to sexual harassment.

Taking stock of the functioning of various systems meant to address crimes against women, there was a common refrain that the agencies have been inept and not forthcoming to address the challenges women face to get justice.

The government has not provided adequate infrastructure, personnel and budget to strengthen the redressal mechanisms. Protection officers with independent charge under Domestic Violence Act, full-fledged forensic laboratory, has been a demand for several years which has not been fullfilled. Mandatory functions under various Acts are just not taking place. 

Free legal aid lawyers demand money and poor vulnerable sections are put to further trauma.

Accountability of institutions and audit was lacking besides gender sensitivity.

It was decided to meet various authorities flagging out the issues that need redressal. 

A meeting of complainants will be held to bring forth the ordeal and injustice in the public domain and demand justice.

The organisations included Arz, Bailancho Saad, Goa Domestic Workers Forum,  Human Rights Law Network, Presentation society, Saad Aangan, The Muslim Women’s Association among others,said  Ms. Sabina Martins on behalf of  the organisations which participated.(eom)