What is the real way to protect women?

Dr Priyanka Saurabh
The debate about the status of women in Indian society is nothing new. The question has been raised time and again as to whether the modern freedoms afforded to women are truly beneficial to them, or whether they are putting them at greater risk of exploitation. Recent events and societal reactions to them have reignited this debate. Some believe that women's increasing freedom is leading to their exploitation, while others consider this a narrow and misguided viewpoint. Therefore, it is essential to approach this issue with logic, facts, and a balanced perspective, rather than with emotions.
First, it's important to understand the root cause of exploitation. Can a woman's education, self-reliance, or independent living truly lead to exploitation? The simple and clear answer is no. Exploitation is always rooted in the mindset of the perpetrator. When someone mistreats a woman, the responsibility lies solely with that person. Linking this to a woman's freedom or behaviour is not only wrong, but also akin to blaming the victim.
There's a societal belief that women are safer if they are under the supervision of their father, brother, or husband. This idea stems from traditional thinking, where safety and control are considered synonymous. However, the reality is far more complex. Numerous cases have emerged where women have been abused by acquaintances or within their own families. This means that mere surveillance or control cannot guarantee safety. Safety is not about restricting individual freedom, but about strengthening justice, law, and awareness within society.
It is also said that women are emotional by nature and therefore easily influenced. While this may be partly true, it is a grave mistake to consider this a weakness. Emotions are part of human nature, whether male or female. The real problem arises when someone exploits these emotions. Therefore, the solution is not to suppress women's emotions or limit their freedom, but to take strict action against those in society who exploit others.
In modern society, women have gained access to education, employment, and the right to make their own decisions. This is a positive change that has empowered them and made them self-reliant. However, it has also brought some challenges. It is every individual's responsibility to use freedom wisely. This applies not only to women but also to men. If a person makes a wrong decision, they may suffer the consequences, but this does not mean that freedom itself is wrong. It is important to understand the difference between the misuse of freedom and freedom itself.
It's often argued that women were safer in earlier times because they lived within the confines of their homes. But this notion is not entirely accurate. Even then, women faced injustice and exploitation, but they were unable to speak out. Today, at least, women can stand up for their rights, speak out, and demand justice. This change is a positive sign for society.
The rising number of rapes and other crimes is certainly a cause for concern. But the reason for this is not women's freedom, but the mindset of the perpetrators, weak law enforcement, and the prevailing misconceptions in society. To find a solution to a problem, we must understand its true causes. Limiting women's freedom is not a solution; it is, in fact, a form of running away from it.
On the contrary, we must envision a society where women are both safe and independent. This requires taking several important steps. First, the education system must incorporate the values ??of gender equality and respect. Children must be taught from childhood that it is important to respect every individual. Second, the legal system must be strengthened so that criminals receive swift and severe punishment. Third, women must be encouraged to develop self-defense and self-confidence, enabling them to face any situation.
Furthermore, the media and society must also understand their responsibility. They must stop objectifying women or questioning their character. Society must understand that a woman's dignity is not tied to her clothes, her behavior, or her decisions, but to her very existence.
Ultimately, it's safe to say that women's freedom and safety are both equally important. Pitting one against the other is a flawed approach. We must strike a balance where women can fully exercise their rights and yet not fear exploitation.
True development of society is possible only when every individual—whether male or female—can live a life of dignity, security, and freedom. Empowering women instead of keeping them under "surveillance" is the right direction. This is the only path that can create a better and safer future not only for women but for society as a whole.
The writer is poet and social thinker