Rape of 17-year-old in New Delhi park reignites women's safety debate
· India · Hindustan Times, Times of India
Three men posing as police officers allegedly gang-raped a 17-year-old girl in a public park in New Delhi on Monday, according to authorities. Hundreds of students marched through the streets of New Delhi on Wednesday demanding stronger safety measures following the incident. The case evokes the 2012 gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old physical therapy student on a bus, which triggered nationwide protests and led to more robust laws against sexual violence. India recorded an average of 80 rape cases per day in 2024, according to the latest available official data, compared to around 68 per day in 2012 before stronger laws were introduced. Activists say the true number of sexual assaults is likely far higher because many victims never file a report, often fearing stigma in a deeply patriarchal society. Women's rights activist Yogita Bhayana told AFP that the actual solution lies in mindset change, not just legal reforms.
Why it matters
Women and girls in India continue to face high risks of sexual violence despite legal reforms, highlighting the need for societal attitude changes. The protests and public outcry show ongoing demand for effective safety measures and accountability.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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