Sexual Violence Against Women, Blaming Survivors and its Consequences

Bhaswati Mena Sexual violence against women and girls remains a serious social concern, but the harm does not end with the crime itself. Victims are often subjected to questions, judgement, and blame over their clothes, behaviour, or choices, shifting attention away from the actions of the perpetrators and placing an unfair burden on those who have already suffered. Whenever such cases come to light, one question often appears: “What was she wearing?” Some people believe that women can avoid sexual violence by dressing differently or by being more careful about where and when they go outside. But this way of thinking completely shifts the responsibility from the offender to the victim. This raises a very simple question: If clothing is the reason behind sexual violence, then what about infants, children, and elderly women who become victims? A baby cannot choose clothing with the intention of attracting anyone, and an elderly woman cannot be blamed for her appearance or lifestyle. These cases make it clear that the clothes worn by a victim cannot be used as an explanation for someone else's criminal behaviour. The real issue is not what a woman wears. The real issue is the mindset of a person who believes that another human being's boundaries and dignity can be ignored. A person's clothing is never permission for inappropriate behaviour. Every individual deserves to feel safe and respected regardless of age, appearance, or what they choose to wear. Victim-blaming also creates a harmful environment for survivors. When people immediately question a victim's clothes, decisions, or character, survivors may feel ashamed or afraid of being judged. This can discourage people from reporting crimes or seeking help. Instead of making survivors defend themselves, society should stand beside them and ensure that their voices are heard with dignity and sensitivity. The responsibility of creating a safer society cannot be placed only on women. Authorities must take meaningful steps to improve public safety. Better street lighting, functioning surveillance systems in appropriate areas, safer public transportation, effective policing, and accessible emergency services can help people feel more secure. Complaints involving sexual violence should be taken seriously and handled with sensitivity. Education is equally important. Schools and colleges should promote awareness about respect, consent, personal boundaries and equality. Young people should learn that no person's clothing, relationship status, or behaviour gives anyone the right to violate their boundaries. Families also have an important role in teaching respect rather than placing unnecessary restrictions only on girls. The media, too, must report such cases responsibly. Sensational headlines and unnecessary details can turn someone's suffering into public entertainment. Reporting should instead focus on awareness, accountability, and the larger social issue. We need to change the questions we ask. Instead of asking a victim, “Why were you wearing that?” or “Why did you go there?”, we should ask, “Why did the offender believe such behaviour was acceptable, and what can society do to prevent it?” Women and girls should not have to live with restrictions simply because society has failed to control criminal behaviour. Safety is a basic right, not a reward for dressing or behaving in a particular way. It is the responsibility of individuals, families, institutions, and authorities to create an environment where everyone can live with dignity and without fear. Also Read: When Students Become Teachers: Turning Classrooms into Agents of Social Change