Breaking the Silence: Women’s Safety and Empowerment in South Asia
South Asia is on track to become the fastest-growing region with a growth rate of 6.4%. However, women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia remain significant challenges, hindering even greater progress. Women’s participation could have driven growth even further, but the patronage of offenses and socio-cultural barriers have pushed women into a vicious cycle of honor, socio-economic, political, and intellectual misery. Addressing women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia is crucial for breaking these barriers and creating an environment where women can contribute fully to society.
Recently, a tragic incident occurred involving 14-year-old Kinza, who was brutally raped, with suspicions of involvement from higher officials of PGC. In Kolkata, the case of Dr. Moumita Debnath, a second-year postgraduate trainee at RG Kar Medical College, was another heartbreaking and disturbing event that shook the nation. She was brutally raped and murdered on August 9, 2024, within the college premises. The investigation led to the arrest of Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police disaster management force, known for domestic abuse. This case sparked widespread outrage, with doctors, medical students, and healthcare workers demanding justice and better workplace safety.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) called for a 24-hour nationwide strike, pressing for stricter security measures in hospitals, improved working conditions, and a central law to prevent violence against healthcare professionals. This incident drew international attention, with medical associations and human rights organizations expressing solidarity with the protesting doctors. The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by medical professionals, particularly women, and the need for systemic changes to ensure women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia.
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The persecution of women is not about virtue but about power and control. Ironically, the new restrictions imposed on women in certain regions are at odds with the teachings of Islam itself. Islam, like many other religions, advocates for respect and dignity for all individuals, emphasizing education as an obligation for both men and women. Yet, by banning women from higher education and destroying their livelihoods, regimes are disregarding these fundamental principles. Instead, they enforce a narrow and distorted interpretation of morality, stifling the spirit of women and confining them to the shadows of society.
In the Aurat March, women are driving their quest for justice and equality. We must prioritize women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia by preserving cultural identity, ensuring due process and justice, encouraging education, critical thinking, and protecting the dignity of families and women. Harassment and rape cases have become pervasive issues, reflecting broad concerns about women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia, and the efficacy of law enforcement. Efforts have been made to combat these crimes, such as increased patrolling, community awareness, and women safety campaigns, but more comprehensive crime prevention strategies are urgently needed.
Another hike in public transportation fares is deeply frustrating for women, as police patrolling remains insufficient, and a lack of proper lighting and security continues to pose safety hazards, especially at night. From a social welfare perspective, special attention should be given to transportation for women, including reduced toll and transport fees to ensure safer, smoother journeys. A solution requires acknowledging and addressing the genuine grievances of South Asian women, with a focus on women’s safety and empowerment in South Asia.
Women are facing a crisis in the modern era. Over the last three decades, the care and treatment of women with mental disorders have become the subject of heated social and political discussions, as the dignity and morality of women come under threat. Psychosomatic disorders are now among the most significant global health issues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy $1 trillion per year in lost productivity, particularly among women. When mental health issues are not addressed, the effects are widespread—decreased productivity, absenteeism, and presenteeism (being physically present but mentally disengaged) are just a few outcomes that harm both individuals and businesses.
Workplace factors contributing to poor mental health include harassment, excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, poor management, job insecurity, bullying, and high-pressure environments. Women, in particular, may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities, leading to chronic stress that deteriorates mental health. As women empowerment continues to progress, it is crucial for organizations to take positive measures to create environments that prioritize mental well-being. Open discussions, breaking cultural boundaries, and offering support for women’s mental health will pave the way for stronger women and lasting empowerment.
Quraitulain Qureshi
Quraitulain Qureshi is a seasoned journalist and a dedicated CSS mentor. She combines her deep understanding of current affairs with a passion for guiding aspiring civil servants. You can reach her at 1995faded@gmail.com