Amid rising cases of violence against women, society must prioritize moral education, swift justice, and empowerment through self-defence to combat this deep-rooted crisis and restore dignity to women.

In recent years, cases of rape, assault, and violence against women have surged, leaving many of us distressed and outraged. Daily news headlines tell of women being violated and dehumanized. As technology and economic development advance, it is alarming to witness a simultaneous decline in respect and empathy for women. This disturbing trend demands serious introspection and immediate action.

The Dehumanization of Women: A Moral Crisis

At the core of these crimes is a fundamental disregard for the humanity and dignity of women. Perpetrators of such heinous acts are not just criminals; they are devoid of the basic ethics that make us human. No religion or cultural background condones such violence. Every major religion and philosophy emphasizes the importance of respecting and protecting women. These criminals have forsaken their morality, engaging in actions that no ethical framework could justify. Even harboring malicious thoughts against women is, in itself, a sin.

Education Must Begin at Home

I firmly believe that the solution to this moral decay lies in education. It is the responsibility of parents to instill respect, empathy, and moral values in their children from a young age. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, we tend to focus excessively on academic achievements, neglecting the moral and ethical upbringing of our children. By teaching children to respect others and view women as equals, we lay the foundation for a more just and compassionate society. Sadly, many children grow up without a strong moral compass, leading to the behaviors we see today.

Empowering Women Through Self-Defense

Given the current state of affairs, it is essential to equip women with the skills and confidence to protect themselves. Introducing self-defense training in schools could play a pivotal role in empowering young girls. We must dispel the notion that women are weak or helpless. With proper training, women can defend themselves, face threats head-on, and even dissuade potential attackers. Implementing a nationwide self-defense program would require careful planning and resources, but the benefits would be immeasurable. Teaching girls to be mentally and physically strong from a young age will prepare them to face any challenge that comes their way.

The Justice System’s Delayed Response

One of the most disheartening aspects of this crisis is the slow response of the justice system to cases of rape and assault. Victims and their families often face long delays in seeking justice, which not only prolongs their suffering but also diminishes public trust in the legal system. Our courts are burdened with an overwhelming number of cases, leading to justice being delayed—or denied. The government must take swift action to address this issue. One potential solution is the creation of a specialized department focused solely on investigating and prosecuting sexual assault cases, ensuring that justice is served promptly and decisively.

Government’s Role in Ensuring Swift Justice

The government must also take responsibility for ensuring that justice is not delayed. Swift justice not only brings closure to victims but also acts as a powerful deterrent to future offenders. If perpetrators know they will be punished swiftly and harshly, they may think twice before committing such crimes. Establishing fast-track courts for sexual violence cases, coupled with a zero-tolerance policy for delays, could be a game-changer in the fight against sexual violence.

Changing Social Mindsets

Laws and self-defense programs alone will not solve the problem. We must also work to change the underlying social mindsets that enable these crimes. For too long, society has treated women as second-class citizens, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and diminishing their value. It is time to challenge these deeply ingrained beliefs and foster a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment for women. This change must happen in our homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

A Collective Responsibility

The increasing incidents of rape and assault are a stain on our society and demand urgent attention. Every member of society has a role to play in addressing this issue. Parents must raise their children with strong moral values and respect for others. Schools should prioritize not only academic education but also self-defense training for girls. The government must ensure swift justice for victims by addressing the backlog in courts and holding perpetrators accountable without delay.

We cannot afford to turn a blind eye. By working together—parents, educators, government officials, and the public—we can create a society where women feel safe, respected, and empowered. Women are not weak; they are strong, capable, and deserving of the same rights and protections as anyone else. It is time to make that a reality, not just in law, but in practice.

Let’s pledge to protect the dignity and safety of women, ensuring a future where they can live without fear.

By Mir Abbas

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Mir Abbas