The incident in Manipur, where two women were subjected to a horrifying ordeal of being stripped, raped, and paraded naked on the streets, has raised questions about the role and responsiveness of the National Commission for Women (NCW). The shocking incident, which occurred on May 4, 2023, highlights the urgent need for stronger action and advocacy to protect the dignity and rights of women in India.
The controversy surrounding this incident began with a statement made by Bihar’s former Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, during the presentation of a caste census report in the Bihar Legislative Assembly. Kumar suggested that educated women could help control the population through responsible sexual behavior, sparking widespread criticism for his remarks.
In response to Nitish Kumar’s statement, Rekha Sharma, the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), condemned it as derogatory and emphasized the need for every woman to be treated with respect and dignity. Her strong stance on this issue earned her praise and respect from many.
However, questions have arisen about the NCW’s silence and inaction in the Manipur incident. Despite multiple complaints from local women’s organizations, the Commission did not respond to the horrific incident that occurred on May 4. The delay in addressing the situation has left many disappointed and frustrated.
Furthermore, on June 12, 2023, a formal complaint was filed against Rekha Sharma herself for her silence on the matter, further eroding public confidence in the Commission’s ability to protect women’s rights.
The situation took a more disheartening turn when a video of the incident in Manipur went viral on July 19, 2023. The video showed thousands of people parading a woman naked on the streets of Manipur, a state under BJP control. The incident sent shockwaves across the nation, prompting questions about the ruling party’s responsibility and the role of the Women’s Commission in addressing such atrocities.
Surprisingly, neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor any BJP leaders, nor Rekha Sharma, the Chairperson of the Women’s Commission, made any public statements regarding the incident, despite its gruesome nature. The collective silence from those in power only fueled public anger and disappointment.
It was only after approximately 78 days that Rekha Sharma finally broke her silence and tweeted about the incident. This delay in response has left many wondering why it took so long for the Women’s Commission to acknowledge and address such a heinous crime.
The incident in Manipur is a dark stain on India’s reputation, as such a horrifying event had never before occurred in the country. It is essential that swift and decisive action is taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and dignity of women in India.
The public’s frustration and concerns about the Women’s Commission’s responsiveness are understandable, as they raise important questions about the role and effectiveness of such institutions in protecting women’s rights. Rekha Sharma’s swift response to certain issues, such as Nitish Kumar’s controversial remarks, further underscores the need for consistency and proactive action in addressing issues affecting women’s safety and rights.
In conclusion, the Manipur incident should serve as a wake-up call for both the government and the Women’s Commission to prioritize the safety and dignity of women in India. It is crucial that all women, regardless of their circumstances, receive the protection and support they deserve, and that those responsible for heinous acts are brought to justice.
