Recently the The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said rape is a "national problem" in India, reflecting the abysmal treatment of women in the country. And two rape cases focused international attention on the abuse and maltreatment.
There is a rape in New Delhi every 22 minutes, giving the city a miserable reputation as the rape capital of India. But, when news got out about the attack and gang-rape on the bus protests rocked the country. It forced a debate about discrimination, cultural beliefs, and the dangers of being a woman in India. Demonstrators surged outside the courthouse where the Indian government promised a speedy trial. And lawmakers in the Indian Parliament promised to get tough on sexual attacks on women.
Women interviewed by W5 in New Delhi told stories of rushing home, to avoid being on the street at night. We met Ankita Banerjee racing home after her college classes – to be home before sunset. “Anything can happen. And you have to live in that constant fear of getting raped, molested, getting trapped.” Full story
