A tribal woman was sexually assaulted in Nishat area of Srinagar and left to die in an injured condition. Her daughter went out to look for her and found her in a pool of blood. She was shifted to a nearby medical facility where she was declared brought dead. This happening in Kashmir where we would boast that a woman, laden with jewellery wouldn’t be harmed by any one while walking on Srinagar streets even during the night. One of the accused was captured by the locals and handed over to the police which swung into action and swiftly arrested the rest of the three accused persons. Srinagar Police should be appreciated for the swift action. Such actions by Police restore the confidence of the public in the system. However, some disturbing reports pouring in suggest that the victim’s family was treated shabbily at the medical facility and staff too was not present there. This should be investigated and if anyone found guilty, action under prescribed norms should be taken.
Coming back to the horrifying incident, it has shocked every one here. Condemnations are poring in from politicians, civil society as well as religious groups with every expressing shock and demanding justice. However, condemnations aren’t going to help. Need is to wake up and ponder why such incidents are taking place. Isn’t this the same Kashmir that was recognised as the safest place for women only a few decades back. Where from has this rot come into the society.
Something is gone terribly wrong. The constant conflict and the violence in past few decades have had an impact on the psyche of the people. Wherever violence becomes part of the society, societies start rotting. That is what has happened here. Drug abuse, drug trafficking, murders, sexual assault and such other crimes are off-shoot of the violence and may need a united response from the society. Charity begins at home so every family has to start looking inwards. Parents have a responsibility to keep a watch on their wards. The intention here is not to deny freedom to children but to keep an eye and be vigilant to notice any kind of awkward behaviour in the children.
Secondly, civil society groups, religious leaders and other responsible citizens should remain vigilant. In Kashmir, we have Masjid Committees in every Mohalla and village. These committees should remain vigilant and be on lookout for any miscreants amongst the community. They should have close liaison with nearest Police stations and be prompt in reporting any criminal activity. The society has to wake up and wake up soon otherwise it would be too late.