Women’s safety continues to be a pressing concern in Assam, where cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes against women have been on the rise. While the state has made significant strides in strengthening laws and support systems for women, challenges remain in terms of ensuring their safety, improving access to justice, and fostering a society where women feel secure and respected. Assam Police, along with various government and non-government organizations, are working tirelessly to address these issues through enhanced law enforcement, awareness campaigns, and stronger legal frameworks.
In this article, we delve into the critical issues related to women’s safety, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and crimes targeting women in Assam, while highlighting the efforts being made to create safer spaces for women in the state.
Key Issues Affecting Women’s Safety in Assam:
- Domestic Violence: Domestic violence remains one of the most pervasive forms of abuse faced by women in Assam. Many women continue to suffer in silence, either due to fear of social stigma, financial dependence, or a lack of awareness about available resources. The pandemic worsened the situation, with lockdowns trapping women at home, making it harder for them to seek help. Despite the implementation of laws such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005), challenges in enforcement and public awareness remain.
- Sexual Assault and Rape: Sexual violence continues to be a significant concern in Assam. In recent years, there have been alarming reports of increasing sexual assault and rape cases across the state. The traditional stigma surrounding sexual assault often prevents women from reporting incidents, leaving many victims without justice. The police and judiciary must be more proactive in ensuring that survivors feel safe to report crimes and that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
- Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Assam, due to its geographical location near international borders, is vulnerable to human trafficking, especially of women and children. Many women are trafficked for the purposes of forced labor, sexual exploitation, and even domestic servitude. The state government and law enforcement agencies have stepped up efforts to crack down on trafficking rings, but challenges remain in tackling this criminal activity.