Act Firmly Against Rapists

Rape cases in Nepal seem to be constantly on the rise despite being declared a crime punishable by law. According to Women’s Rehabilitation Centre (WOREC), almost two rape cases a day are being reported in the country. In the Eastern Region alone, 71 rape cases were recorded last year. This is a horrifying picture of violence and atrocities committed against women, which must be put to an end. Rape is the highest form of atrocity against women. Firm and strict measures must be applied by the state and the society against the rapists, for which necessary laws with the provision of severe punishment as well as mobilisation of the society are necessary.

Violence against women in Nepal is pervasive in various forms and manifestations. Violence against women, in general, and rape, in particular, were not reported in the past for several reasons. But in recent years, women have started to speak out and report cases of gender-based violence and atrocities. The government has enacted laws to curb violence against women and sexual violence like rape. However, such violence and atrocities against women have not lessened in the absence of strict implementation of laws. Moreover, the provision of punishment for the rapists and perpetrators of violence is not as severe or strict as it should be. As a result, the rapists and perpetrators dare repeat such crimes again and again. Thus, it is necessary to raise awareness among all in general and women in particular to encourage them to openly speak out against rapists and register legal cases against them. The perpetrators can be brought to justice only when complaints are registered with the police or in a legal court.

Women in Nepal are often discriminated and have not yet been able to enjoy and exercise equal rights despite the constitutional rights of equality and equal treatment. The gender-based violence and discriminations are one of the reasons for Nepal’s backwardness. It is obvious that the country cannot make progress in all spheres of life when half of the country’s population – women - is deprived of its rights, opportunities and participation in the decision-making, political process and social and economic activities. If the country is to achieve sustainable development, the gender-based violence and all forms of discrimination and atrocities against women must be put to an end and strict punishment should be meted out to the perpetrators of such violence and offence. Rape is a criminal act, which calls for strict and severe punishment to the rapists. Only this will help reduce the crime and ultimately eliminate it in the long run.