The Delhi Police arrested a 19-year-old former domestic worker for the brutal rape and murder of a 22-year-old woman in South Delhi’s Kailash Hills, uncovering a disturbing sequence of events that began hours earlier in Rajasthan and culminated in a meticulously executed crime inside a residential home.&nbsp;The victim, an engineering graduate from IIT and an UPSC aspirant, was the daughter of a senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, and police identified the accused as Rahul Meena, who was apprehended from a hotel in Dwarka within 12 hours of the incident following an intensive multi-team investigation.&nbsp;According to investigators, the crime took place on Wednesday morning when the victim was alone at home, as her parents had stepped out for their routine gym session around 6:40 am, a detail that the accused was fully aware of due to his previous employment at the residence for nearly eight months.&nbsp;Police said Meena entered the house using a spare key that had been kept outside, using his familiarity with the household’s security arrangements, and when the victim resisted his attempt to commit robbery, he attacked her with a blunt object, strangled her using a mobile phone charging cable, and sexually assaulted her during the course of the assault.The victim’s father discovered her lying in a pool of blood at around 8:00 am upon returning home, after which she was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared her dead.&nbsp;CCTV footage captured the accused entering the premises in a yellow shirt and exiting approximately 40 minutes later in a different set of clothes while carrying a backpack, with police stating that he fled with cash and valuables worth nearly Rs 2.5 lakh.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hellhole-on-planet-trump-target-india-china-over-birthright-citizenship-calls-policy-ludicrous-1776934076489">'Hellhole on planet': Trump target India, China over birthright citizenship, calls policy ‘ludicrous’</a>&nbsp;The Delhi Police formed at least 15 teams and examined footage from over 100 CCTV cameras across the area, eventually tracking the accused through a digital trail that included the use of a stolen mobile phone and hotel Wi-Fi logs in Dwarka, which led to his arrest.&nbsp;Further investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.&nbsp;Police officials added that the accused had been dismissed from his job six weeks earlier due to financial misconduct and a gambling addiction, and he has now been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for charges including rape, murder, and robbery.

Investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.

The Delhi Police arrested a 19-year-old former domestic worker for the brutal rape and murder of a 22-year-old woman in South Delhi’s Kailash Hills, uncovering a disturbing sequence of events that began hours earlier in Rajasthan and culminated in a meticulously executed crime inside a residential home. The victim, an engineering graduate from IIT and an UPSC aspirant, was the daughter of a senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, and police identified the accused as Rahul Meena, who was apprehended from a hotel in Dwarka within 12 hours of the incident following an intensive multi-team investigation. According to investigators, the crime took place on Wednesday morning when the victim was alone at home, as her parents had stepped out for their routine gym session around 6:40 am, a detail that the accused was fully aware of due to his previous employment at the residence for nearly eight months. Police said Meena entered the house using a spare key that had been kept outside, using his familiarity with the household’s security arrangements, and when the victim resisted his attempt to commit robbery, he attacked her with a blunt object, strangled her using a mobile phone charging cable, and sexually assaulted her during the course of the assault. The victim’s father discovered her lying in a pool of blood at around 8:00 am upon returning home, after which she was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared her dead. CCTV footage captured the accused entering the premises in a yellow shirt and exiting approximately 40 minutes later in a different set of clothes while carrying a backpack, with police stating that he fled with cash and valuables worth nearly Rs 2.5 lakh. Also Read: 'Hellhole on planet': Trump target India, China over birthright citizenship, calls policy ‘ludicrous’ The Delhi Police formed at least 15 teams and examined footage from over 100 CCTV cameras across the area, eventually tracking the accused through a digital trail that included the use of a stolen mobile phone and hotel Wi-Fi logs in Dwarka, which led to his arrest. Further investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities. Police officials added that the accused had been dismissed from his job six weeks earlier due to financial misconduct and a gambling addiction, and he has now been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for charges including rape, murder, and robbery.

Investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.

Delhi horror: Ex-domestic worker held for rape, murder of IRS officer’s daughter in Kailash Hills

In another distressing incident of sexual assault on women, a 70-year-old woman was allegedly raped in Kerala’s Alappuzha district during an attempted robbery at her house on Saturday night (Aug 24).

A 29-year-old man named Dhanesh is alleged to have stolen around seven sovereigns&nbsp;of gold from the elderly woman and was caught while trying to sell the ornaments. The police have arrested the man from Kanakakunnu in connection with Saturday’s incident.

According to the police, after the man got to know about the elderly woman living alone in the house, he tried to target her. The 70-year-old victim was raped after the accused threw chilli powder and threw the old lady off balance.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-doctor-slapped-abused-a-day-after-protests-end-over-kolkata-rape-murder-case-753339">Delhi doctor slapped, abused, a day after protests end over Kolkata rape-murder case</a>

"He left after locking the door from outside. He also took her mobile phone. She was unable to contact others. The neighbours found her this morning and took her to the hospital and informed us," police said.

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the law, police said. Further investigation into the case is also underway.

This is the second such case of rape that has made headlines after the Kolkata rape-murder case of a government hospital resident doctor. Once again, the chilling details of the case have jolted the country, especially the young population against the rising crime against women.

Meanwhile, the Hema committee report on sexual abuse of female actors in the Malayalam movie industry has rocked the southern state of Kerala. The disgusting findings in the report, which aims at widespread sexual abuse of women by industry bigwigs, have been increasing pressure on the Kerala government to take action.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hema-committee-report-kerala-forms-police-team-to-probe-sexual-misconduct-in-malayalam-film-industry-753284">Hema Committee report: Kerala forms police team to probe sexual misconduct in Malayalam film industry</a>

On Saturday, the LDF government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a team of women IPS officers to probe widespread accusations of sexual abuse that have surfaced in mainstream and social media. The government had to back down from its earlier position that the lack of a specific complaint was holding back prosecution.

Actor Siddique quit as the general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) following allegations of sexual assault by a young female actor. Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairperson Ranjith submitted his resignation after Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra accused him of inappropriate behaviour during a project discussion.

(With inputs from agencies)

In another distressing incident of sexual assault on women, a 70-year-old woman was allegedly raped in Kerala’s Alappuzha district during an attempted robbery at her house on Saturday night (Aug 24).

In another distressing incident of sexual assault on women, a 70-year-old woman was allegedly raped in Kerala’s Alappuzha district during an attempted robbery at her house on Saturday night (Aug 24). A 29-year-old man named Dhanesh is alleged to have stolen around seven sovereigns of gold from the elderly woman and was caught while trying to sell the ornaments. The police have arrested the man from Kanakakunnu in connection with Saturday’s incident. According to the police, after the man got to know about the elderly woman living alone in the house, he tried to target her. The 70-year-old victim was raped after the accused threw chilli powder and threw the old lady off balance. Also Read | Delhi doctor slapped, abused, a day after protests end over Kolkata rape-murder case "He left after locking the door from outside. He also took her mobile phone. She was unable to contact others. The neighbours found her this morning and took her to the hospital and informed us," police said. A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the law, police said. Further investigation into the case is also underway. This is the second such case of rape that has made headlines after the Kolkata rape-murder case of a government hospital resident doctor. Once again, the chilling details of the case have jolted the country, especially the young population against the rising crime against women. Meanwhile, the Hema committee report on sexual abuse of female actors in the Malayalam movie industry has rocked the southern state of Kerala. The disgusting findings in the report, which aims at widespread sexual abuse of women by industry bigwigs, have been increasing pressure on the Kerala government to take action. Also Read | Hema Committee report: Kerala forms police team to probe sexual misconduct in Malayalam film industry On Saturday, the LDF government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a team of women IPS officers to probe widespread accusations of sexual abuse that have surfaced in mainstream and social media. The government had to back down from its earlier position that the lack of a specific complaint was holding back prosecution. Actor Siddique quit as the general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) following allegations of sexual assault by a young female actor. Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairperson Ranjith submitted his resignation after Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra accused him of inappropriate behaviour during a project discussion. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala horror: 70-year-old woman raped during robbery, burglar blinded her with chilly powder

Amidst continuing raging nationwide outrage over the brutal sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi,&nbsp; on Sunday (August 25), said that crime against women is&nbsp;an "unpardonable sin".

Speaking at Lakhpati Didi Sammelan in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Along with increasing the strength of mothers, sisters, and daughters, their safety is also the priority of the country. I have raised this issue repeatedly from the Red Fort. Today, be it any state of the country, I understand the pain and anger of my sisters and daughters."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-medic-rape-murder-case-outraged-doctors-raise-heat-in-new-delhi-parents-slam-mamata-banerjee-751228">Kolkata medic rape-murder case: Outraged doctors raise heat in New Delhi; parents slam Mamata Banerjee</a>

"I will once again tell every political party of the country, every state government that crime against women is an unpardonable sin. Whoever is guilty, he should not be spared," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

In his speech, PM Modi further asserted, that the accomplices of a rapist should also not be spared. He also added&nbsp;that, no matter the position, everybody should face accountability.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Unmarried women have right to safe abortion, says Indian Supreme Court

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"Those who help him in any form should not be spared. Be it a hospital, school, government or police system, at whatever level negligence occurs, everyone should be held accountable. The message should go very clearly from top to bottom. This sin is unpardonable. Governments will keep coming and going, but protecting life and protecting women’s dignity is a big responsibility of all of us, both as a society and as a government," PM Modi said.

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation conducted raids at several locations in Kolkata, including the residential premises of R G Kar College and Hospital's former principal, Sandip Ghosh, his relatives, and aides.

Kolkata Police has extended prohibitory orders near the hospital for an additional week, until August 31.

The main accused, Sanjay Roy, was sent to 14-day judicial custody yesterday after he was produced in Sealdah Court in Kolkata.&nbsp;

Besides, the Calcutta High Court also denied a request to block a planned protest march to the West Bengal state secretariat on August 27, by pointing out that the fundamental right to peaceful protest cannot be restricted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amidst continuing raging nationwide outrage over the brutal sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (August 25), said that crime against women is an "unpardonable sin".

Amidst continuing raging nationwide outrage over the brutal sexual assault and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (August 25), said that crime against women is an "unpardonable sin". Speaking at Lakhpati Didi Sammelan in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Along with increasing the strength of mothers, sisters, and daughters, their safety is also the priority of the country. I have raised this issue repeatedly from the Red Fort. Today, be it any state of the country, I understand the pain and anger of my sisters and daughters." Also read | Kolkata medic rape-murder case: Outraged doctors raise heat in New Delhi; parents slam Mamata Banerjee "I will once again tell every political party of the country, every state government that crime against women is an unpardonable sin. Whoever is guilty, he should not be spared," PM Modi said. In his speech, PM Modi further asserted, that the accomplices of a rapist should also not be spared. He also added that, no matter the position, everybody should face accountability. Also watch | WION Fineprint | Unmarried women have right to safe abortion, says Indian Supreme Court × "Those who help him in any form should not be spared. Be it a hospital, school, government or police system, at whatever level negligence occurs, everyone should be held accountable. The message should go very clearly from top to bottom. This sin is unpardonable. Governments will keep coming and going, but protecting life and protecting women’s dignity is a big responsibility of all of us, both as a society and as a government," PM Modi said. Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation conducted raids at several locations in Kolkata, including the residential premises of R G Kar College and Hospital's former principal, Sandip Ghosh, his relatives, and aides. Kolkata Police has extended prohibitory orders near the hospital for an additional week, until August 31. The main accused, Sanjay Roy, was sent to 14-day judicial custody yesterday after he was produced in Sealdah Court in Kolkata. Besides, the Calcutta High Court also denied a request to block a planned protest march to the West Bengal state secretariat on August 27, by pointing out that the fundamental right to peaceful protest cannot be restricted. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says crime against women unpardonable sin, guilty shouldn't be spared

Human trafficking has become a multi-million-dollar industry. Its victims are men, women and children. The crime ranges from sexual exploitation to forced labour, to forceful recruitment in wars. Those accused are rarely brought to justice due to their influence. So why is human trafficking so hard to combat? To know more, watch Dark World with Harshit Sabarwal on WION.

Human trafficking: Why is it hard to combat? | Dark World

The South African Police Service released the fourth quarter crime statistics for the year 2022-2023 on Tuesday.&nbsp;The statistics were recorded during the first three months of this year.

The statistics revealed that violent crimes increased by 4 per cent for the period between January and March this year, when compared to January-March 2022.

<h2>Murder cases register jump</h2>

Police Minister Bheki Cele said there has been an increase in murder case countywide by 3.4 per cent to 6289 between January and March 2023.

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“The majority of the killings took place in Kwa Zulu-Natal, Western Cape and Gauteng provinces with arguments, vigilantism, and robberies topping the motive list for murder. The Kwa Zulu-Natal province also reported the highest figures of multiple-murder cases, followed by the Eastern Cape with 206 and 155 victims respectively,”&nbsp;the minister said.&nbsp;

<h2>Rape incidents decline</h2>

Cele said reported rape cases have shown decrease in the first three months, however, it remains a concern that 10513 people were raped in the reported period.&nbsp;

Out of the 10513 rape cases, 4768 incidents took place at the home of the victim or at the home of the perpetrator.&nbsp;

<h2>Murders of kids dip by 20%</h2>

Child murders decreased by almost 20 per cent and a slight decrease was also noted in Grievous bodily harm&nbsp;(GBH) assault cases of children, Cele reported.&nbsp;

“Sadly and alarmingly, 29 more children were victims of attempted murder compared to the same period last year,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;South Africa grants diplomatic immunity for attendees of BRICS event

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“The women of this country continue to be stalked by violence, mainly at the hands of men. A double digit percentage increase of 21.5 per cent was recorded in attempted murder figures for the fourth quarter,” the minister added.&nbsp;

In the first three months of this year, 969 women were killed and over 15,000 women were assaulted, Cele said.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The South African Police Service released the fourth quarter crime statistics for the year 2022-2023 on Tuesday. The statistics were recorded during the first three months of this year.

The South African Police Service released the fourth quarter crime statistics for the year 2022-2023 on Tuesday. The statistics were recorded during the first three months of this year. The statistics revealed that violent crimes increased by 4 per cent for the period between January and March this year, when compared to January-March 2022. Murder cases register jump Police Minister Bheki Cele said there has been an increase in murder case countywide by 3.4 per cent to 6289 between January and March 2023. ALSO READ | South Africa president vows to tackle dirty money after FATF 'grey' listing “The majority of the killings took place in Kwa Zulu-Natal, Western Cape and Gauteng provinces with arguments, vigilantism, and robberies topping the motive list for murder. The Kwa Zulu-Natal province also reported the highest figures of multiple-murder cases, followed by the Eastern Cape with 206 and 155 victims respectively,” the minister said. Rape incidents decline Cele said reported rape cases have shown decrease in the first three months, however, it remains a concern that 10513 people were raped in the reported period. Out of the 10513 rape cases, 4768 incidents took place at the home of the victim or at the home of the perpetrator. Murders of kids dip by 20% Child murders decreased by almost 20 per cent and a slight decrease was also noted in Grievous bodily harm (GBH) assault cases of children, Cele reported. “Sadly and alarmingly, 29 more children were victims of attempted murder compared to the same period last year,” he said. ALSO WATCH | South Africa grants diplomatic immunity for attendees of BRICS event × “The women of this country continue to be stalked by violence, mainly at the hands of men. A double digit percentage increase of 21.5 per cent was recorded in attempted murder figures for the fourth quarter,” the minister added. In the first three months of this year, 969 women were killed and over 15,000 women were assaulted, Cele said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa crime data: Murder attempt cases against women rise by 21.5% in first three months of 2023

UK's Metropolitan Police announced Monday that a policeman with more than two decades of experience has pled guilty to dozens of counts of rape, sexual assault, false imprisonment, attempted rape, and other crimes.

WION Dispatch: UK Police officer pleads guilty to 49 crimes against women

South Africa is one of the most unsafe countries in the world and the numbers are proving just that. The recent statistics from the country's police authority revealed that the murder rate in the country increased by 11.5% in the first quarter of 2022 compared with the same period last year. But what's more worrying is that women are the most vulnerable target.

World of Africa | South Africa: Crimes against women on the rise

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019.<o:p></o:p>

A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021. In 2019, however, 44,783 cases of women assault were registered by the authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prince-andrew-served-with-legal-papers-over-accusations-of-sexual-assault-412283">Prince Andrew served with legal papers over accusations of sexual assault</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The report also stated that majority of the cases (30.2 per cent) were registered under 'Cruelty by Husband or his Relatives', 19.7 per cent of cases were 'Assault on Women with Intent to Outrage her Modesty'. In addition to it, 19 per cent cases were of 'Kidnapping and Abduction of Women' and 7.2 per cent were cases of rape.<o:p></o:p>

National capital Delhi saw a significant decline of 24.18 per cent cases last year, in comparison to 2019. In 2020, 9,782 cases were reported whereas 2019 saw 12,902 registered cases of violence against women.<o:p></o:p>

Similarly, Mumbai recorded a decline from 6,519 cases in 2019 to 4,583 cases in 2020. Bengaluru cases declined from 3,486 to 2,730 and Hyderabad’s cases decreased a tad from 2,755 in 2019 to 2,390 in 2020.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-canadian-mp-raj-saini-denies-sexual-misconduct-allegations-410065">Indian-origin Canadian MP Raj Saini denies sexual misconduct allegations</a></o:p>

While major metro cities recorded a decline, Kolkata and Lucknow saw an increase of 35 and 8 per cent respectively in 2020. Cases in Kolkata increased from 1,474 to 2,001 last year and Lucknow cases reached 2.636 instead of 2,425 from 2019.<o:p></o:p>

While the decrease in cases has come as a piece of good news, many also believe that it may be simply a result of repetitive and extended lockdowns imposed in India due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019. A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021.

Crime against women in Indian cities declined by nearly 21 per cent in the pandemic year of 2020, when compared with 2019. A report by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) stated that nearly 35,331 cases of violence against women were registered in 2021. In 2019, however, 44,783 cases of women assault were registered by the authorities. Also read | Prince Andrew served with legal papers over accusations of sexual assault The report also stated that majority of the cases (30.2 per cent) were registered under 'Cruelty by Husband or his Relatives', 19.7 per cent of cases were 'Assault on Women with Intent to Outrage her Modesty'. In addition to it, 19 per cent cases were of 'Kidnapping and Abduction of Women' and 7.2 per cent were cases of rape. National capital Delhi saw a significant decline of 24.18 per cent cases last year, in comparison to 2019. In 2020, 9,782 cases were reported whereas 2019 saw 12,902 registered cases of violence against women. Similarly, Mumbai recorded a decline from 6,519 cases in 2019 to 4,583 cases in 2020. Bengaluru cases declined from 3,486 to 2,730 and Hyderabad’s cases decreased a tad from 2,755 in 2019 to 2,390 in 2020. Also read | Indian-origin Canadian MP Raj Saini denies sexual misconduct allegations While major metro cities recorded a decline, Kolkata and Lucknow saw an increase of 35 and 8 per cent respectively in 2020. Cases in Kolkata increased from 1,474 to 2,001 last year and Lucknow cases reached 2.636 instead of 2,425 from 2019. While the decrease in cases has come as a piece of good news, many also believe that it may be simply a result of repetitive and extended lockdowns imposed in India due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Crime against women in Indian cities decreased by 21% in 2020: NCRB

Faezeh Momeni, an Iranian journalist working for a news website in Tehran, was beaten by the guard of a state vaccination centre on May 18, while she was producing a report about the vaccination process.

According to the state-run Etemad Online website, the journalist was beaten by a Protection Agency agent from the Beheshti Medical Sciences University on her way out of the vaccination centre. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The guard asked her to delete all the interviews, but upon her refusal, he attacked her, breaking her finger. Faezeh was taken to the hospital for surgery.

Momeni shared a photo of her injuries on her Instagram account explaining that she carried out a series of interviews with doctors and health care workers of the centre, but that the security guard told her to delete them.

The Iranian authorities have been repeatedly criticized by the media and experts for not being transparent and responsive about the slow Covid-19 vaccination campaign.

Women are facing several hardships in the Islamic republic, including violence directed at them by men and deepening unemployment in a coronavirus-hit economy. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Faezeh Momeni, an Iranian journalist working for a news website in Tehran, was beaten by the guard of a state vaccination centre on May 18, while she was producing a report about the vaccination process.

Faezeh Momeni, an Iranian journalist working for a news website in Tehran, was beaten by the guard of a state vaccination centre on May 18, while she was producing a report about the vaccination process. According to the state-run Etemad Online website, the journalist was beaten by a Protection Agency agent from the Beheshti Medical Sciences University on her way out of the vaccination centre. The guard asked her to delete all the interviews, but upon her refusal, he attacked her, breaking her finger. Faezeh was taken to the hospital for surgery. Momeni shared a photo of her injuries on her Instagram account explaining that she carried out a series of interviews with doctors and health care workers of the centre, but that the security guard told her to delete them. The Iranian authorities have been repeatedly criticized by the media and experts for not being transparent and responsive about the slow Covid-19 vaccination campaign. Women are facing several hardships in the Islamic republic, including violence directed at them by men and deepening unemployment in a coronavirus-hit economy. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 in Iran: Gaurd breaks female journalist's finger for not deleting interviews

For nearly two decades, the global aid organization Mercy Corps had operated with a troubling secret: A daughter of one of the group’s longtime leaders, co-founder Ellsworth Culver, had accused him of years of sexual abuse.

When his daughter Tania Culver Humphrey first came forward with the allegations in the early 1990s, the leadership of the international nonprofit organization was largely dismissive and allowed Culver to stay on in an executive role. But on Wednesday, after an extensive accounting of how the organization handled a case that eventually reached around the world, Mercy Corps apologized for what it acknowledged were “extensive failures.”

“We feel deep regret that Mercy Corps failed in its responsibility in 1992 and 1993 to understand the extent of the abuse, assist in pursuing justice, and potentially prevent further harm,” the organization’s board members said in a statement.

The apology came as Mercy Corps released an independent report it had commissioned that described horrifying accounts from Culver Humphrey of abuse that extended far beyond her childhood home near Portland, Oregon. 
 
Speaking to investigators for more than 100 hours, Culver Humphrey reported that both before and during his time at Mercy Corps, her father brought her on international work trips, offering her for sex to men. Other young girls in those countries were also being exploited, she told investigators, including one she says died in a Thai hotel after a night of “severe sexual and physical abuse.”

The independent investigators did not reach conclusions about the veracity of the allegations and wrote that in examining Culver’s activities around the world, they were not able to find witnesses who recalled seeing or hearing about abusive behavior. But the investigators noted that Culver Humphrey’s accounts matched up with travel records, and their report seemed to accept that abuse did occur, referring to her as “the survivor.”

The investigators noted that they had not felt the need to reinterview several of Culver Humphrey’s childhood friends, who for an investigation published by The Oregonian had corroborated her accounts of abuse that had occurred at or near her home.

“We unreservedly believe Ms. Culver Humphrey,” Mercy Corps’s chief executive, Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, said in an interview.

Culver Humphrey said she had been distressed by the failure of the organization to much earlier conduct a serious investigation into the allegations about her father, who died in 2005. But she commended Mercy Corps and its new leadership for the effort it had undertaken in recent months.

“It’s been extremely hard and painful, but there was definitely this genuine effort to figure out how to be transparent with something so awful — and take accountability for it,” she said in an interview. “I want it to be a new standard for other organizations.”

Mercy Corps got its start in 1979 with a focus on refugees in Cambodia but grew to operate across the globe, with 5,600 people operating in 40 countries with half a billion dollars in annual donations and other revenue. Culver, who had previously worked with the aid organizations World Vision and Food for the Hungry, helped start Mercy Corps in the early 1980s and became its president in 1984. He was later granted the title of co-founder.

Culver Humphrey, 50, told investigators that her father began abusing her in her early childhood in the 1970s and that the abuse persisted into her teenage years, sometimes involving a variety of perpetrators at Mercy Corps’ headquarters in Portland.

Medical records she provided show that she had reported details of her father’s abuse to counsellors in the 1980s. In 1992, she talked about the abuse at a women’s prayer group, where someone passed along information that ultimately came to the attention of Mercy Corps’ leadership.

But the investigators this week announced a number of failures in how the allegations were handled: Mercy Corps leaders disclosed the investigation to Culver, who was then the president and chief executive, despite his daughter’s request that he not be informed. After that, the report said, the organization seemed to accept his contention that his daughter had reported false memories, showing him “undue deference” and failing to ensure the allegations were fully investigated.

Culver resigned from his position as president in 1994 but continued as vice president. This week’s independent report found that the organization had failed to fully investigate or take action on the reports about Culver. In one email noted in the report, a former board member sent a letter to the Mercy Corps leadership in 2018 regarding Culver, saying, “I saved his job and career when he was accused by his daughter.”

Culver Humphrey, who now lives in Portland with her husband and two children, approached Mercy Corps again in 2018, asking the organization to take a closer look at how her complaints had been handled in the past. The organization responded to her in a letter, standing by its initial assessment that there was “insufficient evidence” to support her claims against Culver.

That changed after the article in The Oregonian in 2019 detailed some of Culver Humphrey’s allegations and quoted witnesses who corroborated details of her story, including a childhood friend, Michelle Green, who reported that Culver had sexually abused her, too.

The independent investigation released Wednesday, conducted by Freeh Group International Solutions, a global risk management firm that specializes in business integrity and due diligence, detailed reports from Culver Humphrey of extensive abuse.

The allegations went beyond what she had earlier reported occurred with her father at their home in Portland and included her claims, not reported in the earlier Oregonian article or an initial report released last year, that her father had taken her on business trips to foreign countries and arranged for her and other girls recruited locally to have sex with men.

In one account described in the report, Culver Humphrey said she was about 9 on one such trip when she and a local girl of about the same age were abused through the night by her father and another man. By the next morning, Culver Humphrey reported, the other girl was dead. Investigators said they were limited in their ability to corroborate the report but “reviewed documents and survivor statements which confirmed the timing and location of this trip as well as the relationship between both perpetrators.”

Culver Humphrey also reported witnessing her father abuse other children brought in during another business trip, according to the report. She told investigators that on a trip to Honduras her father arranged an encounter in which a foreign military officer sexually abused her. She estimated that she was 13 or 14 at the time and said her father told her it would “help other children” by supporting the work of Mercy Corps, according to the investigation.

The investigators said Culver Humphrey identified eight men who she said had participated in the sexual assaults. While none are currently affiliated with Mercy Corps, according to the report, seven of them previously were affiliated with the organization. Investigators said the details of the reports had been passed along to law enforcement agencies.

Some of the allegations appeared to date back to the years before Culver was at Mercy Corps, when he was an executive vice president at Food for the Hungry, a relief organization based in Arizona. The group said in a statement Wednesday that it was “deeply saddened by the sexual assault reports that came to light against Ellsworth Culver” but said it had seen no reports of incidents related to Culver from his time at the organization from 1978 to 1982.

D’Oyen McKenna, the chief executive of Mercy Corps, said the organization was horrified by the revelations and had shared information on the participants and incidents included in the report with the FBI.

“We acknowledge this ugly piece of our history, but this will not be our legacy,” she said. “This has profoundly changed Mercy Corps.”

The FBI in Portland said it could not discuss whether there was any active investigation.

Culver Humphrey said that while it appears Oregon’s statute of limitations on such abuse currently prevents prosecution for those who she said abused her in the Portland area, she is hopeful there might be some pathway to criminal accountability.

The report described Culver Humphrey’s account of how her father would take photos of her, posing her and other victims. Two of Culver Humphrey’s childhood friends — Theresa deSousa and Kami Golden — both said in interviews with The New York Times that they recalled seeing photos in a drawer at the Culver home that depicted nude young girls who were dark-skinned. Both recalled recognizing at the time that the photos were inappropriate.

Another friend, Karin Keita, said she recalled talking to Culver Humphrey early in high school about her father’s abuse. Culver Humphrey would sometimes appear with marks around her neck that she said her father had caused, Keita said, and she recalled being mortified at watching Culver hold his hand on Culver Humphrey’s upper thigh on one occasion and, on another, lie on top of her, kissing her on the lips for an extended period.

Culver Humphrey said she had an opportunity to address the members of the Mercy Corps board this week. She said the board members listened without a hint of defensiveness. She cried. Board members cried.

“That’s how things actually get done,” Culver Humphrey said. “If people can feel safe enough to talk about what’s happened to them and we can bring this out, it’s hard and it’s awful and it’s terrible, but that’s how things will eventually get better. It’s going to save people’s lives.”

For nearly two decades, the global aid organization Mercy Corps had operated with a troubling secret: A daughter of one of the group’s longtime leaders, co-founder Ellsworth Culver, had accused him of years of sexual abuse.

For nearly two decades, the global aid organization Mercy Corps had operated with a troubling secret: A daughter of one of the group’s longtime leaders, co-founder Ellsworth Culver, had accused him of years of sexual abuse. When his daughter Tania Culver Humphrey first came forward with the allegations in the early 1990s, the leadership of the international nonprofit organization was largely dismissive and allowed Culver to stay on in an executive role. But on Wednesday, after an extensive accounting of how the organization handled a case that eventually reached around the world, Mercy Corps apologized for what it acknowledged were “extensive failures.” “We feel deep regret that Mercy Corps failed in its responsibility in 1992 and 1993 to understand the extent of the abuse, assist in pursuing justice, and potentially prevent further harm,” the organization’s board members said in a statement. The apology came as Mercy Corps released an independent report it had commissioned that described horrifying accounts from Culver Humphrey of abuse that extended far beyond her childhood home near Portland, Oregon. Speaking to investigators for more than 100 hours, Culver Humphrey reported that both before and during his time at Mercy Corps, her father brought her on international work trips, offering her for sex to men. Other young girls in those countries were also being exploited, she told investigators, including one she says died in a Thai hotel after a night of “severe sexual and physical abuse.” The independent investigators did not reach conclusions about the veracity of the allegations and wrote that in examining Culver’s activities around the world, they were not able to find witnesses who recalled seeing or hearing about abusive behavior. But the investigators noted that Culver Humphrey’s accounts matched up with travel records, and their report seemed to accept that abuse did occur, referring to her as “the survivor.” The investigators noted that they had not felt the need to reinterview several of Culver Humphrey’s childhood friends, who for an investigation published by The Oregonian had corroborated her accounts of abuse that had occurred at or near her home. “We unreservedly believe Ms. Culver Humphrey,” Mercy Corps’s chief executive, Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, said in an interview. Culver Humphrey said she had been distressed by the failure of the organization to much earlier conduct a serious investigation into the allegations about her father, who died in 2005. But she commended Mercy Corps and its new leadership for the effort it had undertaken in recent months. “It’s been extremely hard and painful, but there was definitely this genuine effort to figure out how to be transparent with something so awful — and take accountability for it,” she said in an interview. “I want it to be a new standard for other organizations.” Mercy Corps got its start in 1979 with a focus on refugees in Cambodia but grew to operate across the globe, with 5,600 people operating in 40 countries with half a billion dollars in annual donations and other revenue. Culver, who had previously worked with the aid organizations World Vision and Food for the Hungry, helped start Mercy Corps in the early 1980s and became its president in 1984. He was later granted the title of co-founder. Culver Humphrey, 50, told investigators that her father began abusing her in her early childhood in the 1970s and that the abuse persisted into her teenage years, sometimes involving a variety of perpetrators at Mercy Corps’ headquarters in Portland. Medical records she provided show that she had reported details of her father’s abuse to counsellors in the 1980s. In 1992, she talked about the abuse at a women’s prayer group, where someone passed along information that ultimately came to the attention of Mercy Corps’ leadership. But the investigators this week announced a number of failures in how the allegations were handled: Mercy Corps leaders disclosed the investigation to Culver, who was then the president and chief executive, despite his daughter’s request that he not be informed. After that, the report said, the organization seemed to accept his contention that his daughter had reported false memories, showing him “undue deference” and failing to ensure the allegations were fully investigated. Culver resigned from his position as president in 1994 but continued as vice president. This week’s independent report found that the organization had failed to fully investigate or take action on the reports about Culver. In one email noted in the report, a former board member sent a letter to the Mercy Corps leadership in 2018 regarding Culver, saying, “I saved his job and career when he was accused by his daughter.” Culver Humphrey, who now lives in Portland with her husband and two children, approached Mercy Corps again in 2018, asking the organization to take a closer look at how her complaints had been handled in the past. The organization responded to her in a letter, standing by its initial assessment that there was “insufficient evidence” to support her claims against Culver. That changed after the article in The Oregonian in 2019 detailed some of Culver Humphrey’s allegations and quoted witnesses who corroborated details of her story, including a childhood friend, Michelle Green, who reported that Culver had sexually abused her, too. The independent investigation released Wednesday, conducted by Freeh Group International Solutions, a global risk management firm that specializes in business integrity and due diligence, detailed reports from Culver Humphrey of extensive abuse. The allegations went beyond what she had earlier reported occurred with her father at their home in Portland and included her claims, not reported in the earlier Oregonian article or an initial report released last year, that her father had taken her on business trips to foreign countries and arranged for her and other girls recruited locally to have sex with men. In one account described in the report, Culver Humphrey said she was about 9 on one such trip when she and a local girl of about the same age were abused through the night by her father and another man. By the next morning, Culver Humphrey reported, the other girl was dead. Investigators said they were limited in their ability to corroborate the report but “reviewed documents and survivor statements which confirmed the timing and location of this trip as well as the relationship between both perpetrators.” Culver Humphrey also reported witnessing her father abuse other children brought in during another business trip, according to the report. She told investigators that on a trip to Honduras her father arranged an encounter in which a foreign military officer sexually abused her. She estimated that she was 13 or 14 at the time and said her father told her it would “help other children” by supporting the work of Mercy Corps, according to the investigation. The investigators said Culver Humphrey identified eight men who she said had participated in the sexual assaults. While none are currently affiliated with Mercy Corps, according to the report, seven of them previously were affiliated with the organization. Investigators said the details of the reports had been passed along to law enforcement agencies. Some of the allegations appeared to date back to the years before Culver was at Mercy Corps, when he was an executive vice president at Food for the Hungry, a relief organization based in Arizona. The group said in a statement Wednesday that it was “deeply saddened by the sexual assault reports that came to light against Ellsworth Culver” but said it had seen no reports of incidents related to Culver from his time at the organization from 1978 to 1982. D’Oyen McKenna, the chief executive of Mercy Corps, said the organization was horrified by the revelations and had shared information on the participants and incidents included in the report with the FBI. “We acknowledge this ugly piece of our history, but this will not be our legacy,” she said. “This has profoundly changed Mercy Corps.” The FBI in Portland said it could not discuss whether there was any active investigation. Culver Humphrey said that while it appears Oregon’s statute of limitations on such abuse currently prevents prosecution for those who she said abused her in the Portland area, she is hopeful there might be some pathway to criminal accountability. The report described Culver Humphrey’s account of how her father would take photos of her, posing her and other victims. Two of Culver Humphrey’s childhood friends — Theresa deSousa and Kami Golden — both said in interviews with The New York Times that they recalled seeing photos in a drawer at the Culver home that depicted nude young girls who were dark-skinned. Both recalled recognizing at the time that the photos were inappropriate. Another friend, Karin Keita, said she recalled talking to Culver Humphrey early in high school about her father’s abuse. Culver Humphrey would sometimes appear with marks around her neck that she said her father had caused, Keita said, and she recalled being mortified at watching Culver hold his hand on Culver Humphrey’s upper thigh on one occasion and, on another, lie on top of her, kissing her on the lips for an extended period. Culver Humphrey said she had an opportunity to address the members of the Mercy Corps board this week. She said the board members listened without a hint of defensiveness. She cried. Board members cried. “That’s how things actually get done,” Culver Humphrey said. “If people can feel safe enough to talk about what’s happened to them and we can bring this out, it’s hard and it’s awful and it’s terrible, but that’s how things will eventually get better. It’s going to save people’s lives.”

'Deep regret’ inside aid organization grappling with sexual abuse

A Malaysian teenager is facing major backlash for speaking out against the passivity shown towards rape culture in the country’s schools. Ain took to TikTok to point to excesses teachers take with words, especially while referring to traumatic crimes like rape.

Since then, the 17-year-old Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam has received support from many on social media, while also receiving a lot of backlash for speaking out against the same.

Insensitivity a 'joke'?

The teacher in question&nbsp;was referring to protections offered in the country against rape. While doing so, the teacher reportedly said the following to students - “So if you want to rape anyone, rape someone above 18”.&nbsp;

Ain raised the issue with another teacher, but was chided for being “emotional and sensitive”, she revealed to BBC. Even though she has received immense support on social media since speaking out, the general backlash and the attitude of others speaks&nbsp;of how such heinous crimes are infantilised as “jokes”.

The teenager’s ferocious words have struck a chord with a few. In fact, now Malaysians are asking for schools to become safer for boys and girls alike. Many have written songs about the same, asking the authorities to take necessary steps to spread awareness about the severity of a crime like rape.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-woman-accuses-spy-of-rape-by-tricking-her-into-relationship-384233" hreflang="en">UK: Woman accuses spy of rape by tricking her into relationship</a>

Since in spoke out, Malaysian kids erupted on social media - sharing similar instances they faced in their educational institutions. Many also reported incidents of harassment and abuse at the hands of teachers who&nbsp;allegedly do nothing to break the cycle.&nbsp;

'We want to educate'

“We want to educate. We want to change”, Ain told BBC.&nbsp;

But soon after her post on social media, many began to criticise her for taking a joke too seriously. Some comments went as far as urging her to “cover” herself to avoid being raped.&nbsp;

Ain’s father spoke out in her support during a chat with BBC, saying that this incident serves as “proof that our culture, our society… we need to rectify this and come out from that kind of way of thinking”.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/break-their-lineage-break-their-roots-report-details-chinese-authorities-torture-rape-of-uighur-muslims-378793" hreflang="en">'Break their lineage, break their roots': Report details Chinese authorities’ torture, rape of Uighur Muslims</a>

This doesn’t end here. Turns out, the family took the matter to the police.

Local outlet MalaysiaKini reported that the deputy inspector-general of police dismissed the claims as “maybe a joke”.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Education, the teacher who made the “joke” has been transferred while the matter is being investigated.

&nbsp;

A Malaysian teenager is facing major backlash for speaking out against the passivity shown towards rape culture in the country’s schools. Ain took to TikTok to point to excesses teachers take with words, especially while referring to traumatic crimes like rape.

A Malaysian teenager is facing major backlash for speaking out against the passivity shown towards rape culture in the country’s schools. Ain took to TikTok to point to excesses teachers take with words, especially while referring to traumatic crimes like rape. Since then, the 17-year-old Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam has received support from many on social media, while also receiving a lot of backlash for speaking out against the same. Insensitivity a 'joke'? The teacher in question was referring to protections offered in the country against rape. While doing so, the teacher reportedly said the following to students - “So if you want to rape anyone, rape someone above 18”. Ain raised the issue with another teacher, but was chided for being “emotional and sensitive”, she revealed to BBC. Even though she has received immense support on social media since speaking out, the general backlash and the attitude of others speaks of how such heinous crimes are infantilised as “jokes”. The teenager’s ferocious words have struck a chord with a few. In fact, now Malaysians are asking for schools to become safer for boys and girls alike. Many have written songs about the same, asking the authorities to take necessary steps to spread awareness about the severity of a crime like rape. Also read: UK: Woman accuses spy of rape by tricking her into relationship Since in spoke out, Malaysian kids erupted on social media - sharing similar instances they faced in their educational institutions. Many also reported incidents of harassment and abuse at the hands of teachers who allegedly do nothing to break the cycle. 'We want to educate' “We want to educate. We want to change”, Ain told BBC. But soon after her post on social media, many began to criticise her for taking a joke too seriously. Some comments went as far as urging her to “cover” herself to avoid being raped. Ain’s father spoke out in her support during a chat with BBC, saying that this incident serves as “proof that our culture, our society… we need to rectify this and come out from that kind of way of thinking”. Also read: 'Break their lineage, break their roots': Report details Chinese authorities’ torture, rape of Uighur Muslims This doesn’t end here. Turns out, the family took the matter to the police. Local outlet MalaysiaKini reported that the deputy inspector-general of police dismissed the claims as “maybe a joke”. According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Education, the teacher who made the “joke” has been transferred while the matter is being investigated.

How a Malaysian teenager's fight against rape culture in schools caused national backlash

Nine women who delivered babies in a PCR van while being shifted to hospitals during the COVID-19-induced lockdown last year have been invited as guests to an event at Delhi Police headquarters on the occasion of International Women's Day on March 8, officials said on Sunday.

According to the police, its PCR unit shifted 997 pregnant women to various hospitals in 2020 during the lockdown and in nine such cases, deliveries took place in the PCR vans.

Besides, 21 women police officers will also be felicitated for their commendable work during the COVID-19 pandemic and other spheres, police said, adding that 15 other women, who acted as good samaritans and helped police perform various duties during the pandemic will also be honoured.

"The nine mothers who delivered babies in the PCR vans have been invited by Delhi Police Commissioner as guests to our Women's Day programme tomorrow to celebrate our association with them and the pride we got by facilitating their motherhood right in our PCR vehicles," said police official Chinmoy Biswal.

During the lockdown, when all modes of transport were suspended and ambulance service was also not available, staff of the PCR van provided invaluable service to hapless women, police said.

Citing some of the instances, the police said on the evening of March 4 last year, a PCR Mobile Patrol Van (MPVs) staff received a call that a woman named Pooja was in labour pain and needed immediate medical assistance at Panchvati near Mandi Park in Palam.

The team rushed to the spot where they found the lady in labour pain along with her three children. They called a woman who ran tea-stall nearby for assistance.

"She checked the pregnant lady and informed that the delivery was imminent as the baby was half out of the mother''s womb.

"The staff made the necessary arrangements and a girl child was born. She was named Sonia. The baby is about one-year-old and is hale and hearty," police said.

 
Police official Isha Pandey said, "The MPVs displayed exemplary conviction and commitment to duty by helping the women deliver their babies in PCR van though they are not trained for delivery of babies, thus taking the services of PCR to a higher level."

In another such incident on the night of May 16, the PCR van staff was rushing a pregnant lady named Kiran with the help of her husband and a family member from a slum cluster in Prem Nagar area to Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital, they said.

On the way, the lady suffered extreme labour pain following which the PCR van had to be stopped midway and provide necessary assistance for delivery. The woman gave birth to a girl baby and she was named Shanvi. She is about-one-year-old and is also hale and hearty, according to police.

Nine women who delivered babies in a PCR van while being shifted to hospitals during the COVID-19-induced lockdown last year have been invited as guests to an event at Delhi Police headquarters on the occasion of International Women's Day on March 8, officials said on Sunday.

Nine women who delivered babies in a PCR van while being shifted to hospitals during the COVID-19-induced lockdown last year have been invited as guests to an event at Delhi Police headquarters on the occasion of International Women's Day on March 8, officials said on Sunday. According to the police, its PCR unit shifted 997 pregnant women to various hospitals in 2020 during the lockdown and in nine such cases, deliveries took place in the PCR vans. Besides, 21 women police officers will also be felicitated for their commendable work during the COVID-19 pandemic and other spheres, police said, adding that 15 other women, who acted as good samaritans and helped police perform various duties during the pandemic will also be honoured. "The nine mothers who delivered babies in the PCR vans have been invited by Delhi Police Commissioner as guests to our Women's Day programme tomorrow to celebrate our association with them and the pride we got by facilitating their motherhood right in our PCR vehicles," said police official Chinmoy Biswal. During the lockdown, when all modes of transport were suspended and ambulance service was also not available, staff of the PCR van provided invaluable service to hapless women, police said. Citing some of the instances, the police said on the evening of March 4 last year, a PCR Mobile Patrol Van (MPVs) staff received a call that a woman named Pooja was in labour pain and needed immediate medical assistance at Panchvati near Mandi Park in Palam. The team rushed to the spot where they found the lady in labour pain along with her three children. They called a woman who ran tea-stall nearby for assistance. "She checked the pregnant lady and informed that the delivery was imminent as the baby was half out of the mother''s womb. "The staff made the necessary arrangements and a girl child was born. She was named Sonia. The baby is about one-year-old and is hale and hearty," police said. Police official Isha Pandey said, "The MPVs displayed exemplary conviction and commitment to duty by helping the women deliver their babies in PCR van though they are not trained for delivery of babies, thus taking the services of PCR to a higher level." In another such incident on the night of May 16, the PCR van staff was rushing a pregnant lady named Kiran with the help of her husband and a family member from a slum cluster in Prem Nagar area to Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital, they said. On the way, the lady suffered extreme labour pain following which the PCR van had to be stopped midway and provide necessary assistance for delivery. The woman gave birth to a girl baby and she was named Shanvi. She is about-one-year-old and is also hale and hearty, according to police.

International Women's Day: 9 women who delivered babies in cops' vans invited to Delhi Police event

A huge majority of young European women limit where they go or who they spend time with for fear of assault or harassment, according to a report published Friday by an EU agency.

"Shockingly, 83 percent of women aged between 16 and 29 limit where they go or who they spend time with to protect themselves," the report from the Vienna-based Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) said.

The figure was one of the findings in a FRA report on victims' experiences of crime, based on surveys completed by almost 35,000 people across the EU, as well as in the UK and North Macedonia.

"We see that the experience of harassment of a sexual nature, which specifically has an impact on women, often happens in public spaces involving perpetrators that women don't know," report author Sami Nevala told AFP.

"These experiences are then reflected in young women's perceptions about places where they can go safely and times of day when they can go out safely. It's a big issue in terms of equality, because it shows that women are not able to use public space equally to men," he added.

The report showed a clear gender split on the issue, with only 58 percent of men in the same age range saying they would limit their behaviour in a similar way.

According to the FRA, nearly one in 10 people in the EU experienced violence within five years of the survey, ranging from three percent to 18 percent depending on the country.&nbsp;

Young people, ethnic minorities, those who do not identify as heterosexual and people with disabilities experience higher rates of violence than others, the report suggested.

The figures also shine a light on the problem of underreporting of crime, showing that only 30 percent of incidents involving physical violence -- and just 11 percent of those involving harassment -- are reported.&nbsp;

A huge majority of young European women limit where they go or who they spend time with for fear of assault or harassment, according to a report published Friday by an EU agency.

A huge majority of young European women limit where they go or who they spend time with for fear of assault or harassment, according to a report published Friday by an EU agency. "Shockingly, 83 percent of women aged between 16 and 29 limit where they go or who they spend time with to protect themselves," the report from the Vienna-based Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) said. The figure was one of the findings in a FRA report on victims' experiences of crime, based on surveys completed by almost 35,000 people across the EU, as well as in the UK and North Macedonia. "We see that the experience of harassment of a sexual nature, which specifically has an impact on women, often happens in public spaces involving perpetrators that women don't know," report author Sami Nevala told AFP. "These experiences are then reflected in young women's perceptions about places where they can go safely and times of day when they can go out safely. It's a big issue in terms of equality, because it shows that women are not able to use public space equally to men," he added. The report showed a clear gender split on the issue, with only 58 percent of men in the same age range saying they would limit their behaviour in a similar way. According to the FRA, nearly one in 10 people in the EU experienced violence within five years of the survey, ranging from three percent to 18 percent depending on the country. Young people, ethnic minorities, those who do not identify as heterosexual and people with disabilities experience higher rates of violence than others, the report suggested. The figures also shine a light on the problem of underreporting of crime, showing that only 30 percent of incidents involving physical violence -- and just 11 percent of those involving harassment -- are reported.

Eight in 10 young women 'limit behaviour for protection', report says

Outrage erupted in Brazil Tuesday (Nov 3) over video footage of a rape trial where the defendant's attorney verbally attacked and humiliated the alleged victim, leaving her in tears and vainly begging the judge to intervene.

Mariana Ferrer, a 23-year-old event promoter, accused wealthy businessman Andre Aranha, 42, of raping her during a party she was hired to promote in 2018 in the trendy beach resort of Florianopolis in southern Brazil.

She says she was drugged before the assault happened.

Aranha hired high-profile defence attorney Gaston da Rosa Filho, who virulently attacked Ferrer's credibility during the trial.

Filho aggressively questioned Ferrer over sensual photos she had posted online and told her, "I pray to God my son never meets a woman like you." He called Ferrer's rape allegation a "little show" and accused her of using it for financial gain.

"It's no use to fake cry. Get your crocodile tears out of here," he said after she broke down at the trial, held by remote video link earlier this year.

The episode left a shaken Ferrer begging Judge Rudson Marcos to intervene.

"Please, your honour, even defendants, even murderers, aren't treated the way I'm being treated," she said through sobs.

Aranha was acquitted after Filho successfully argued his client had at worst committed "culpable rape" - in other words, that he did not realise Ferrer was unable to consent, according to news site The Intercept Brazil.

But backlash broke out when the site published excerpts of the trial video.

The National Justice Council (CNJ), a judicial oversight body, announced an investigation into Marcos's conduct.

The hashtag #JusticeforMariFerrer was meanwhile a top trending topic on Twitter.

"The scenes from Mariana Ferrer's trial are appalling. The justice system should be a place of refuge, not of torture and humiliation," tweeted Brazil Supreme Court Justice Gilmar Mendes.

Outrage erupted in Brazil Tuesday (Nov 3) over video footage of a rape trial where the defendant's attorney verbally attacked and humiliated the alleged victim, leaving her in tears and vainly begging the judge to intervene.

Outrage erupted in Brazil Tuesday (Nov 3) over video footage of a rape trial where the defendant's attorney verbally attacked and humiliated the alleged victim, leaving her in tears and vainly begging the judge to intervene. Mariana Ferrer, a 23-year-old event promoter, accused wealthy businessman Andre Aranha, 42, of raping her during a party she was hired to promote in 2018 in the trendy beach resort of Florianopolis in southern Brazil. She says she was drugged before the assault happened. Aranha hired high-profile defence attorney Gaston da Rosa Filho, who virulently attacked Ferrer's credibility during the trial. Filho aggressively questioned Ferrer over sensual photos she had posted online and told her, "I pray to God my son never meets a woman like you." He called Ferrer's rape allegation a "little show" and accused her of using it for financial gain. "It's no use to fake cry. Get your crocodile tears out of here," he said after she broke down at the trial, held by remote video link earlier this year. The episode left a shaken Ferrer begging Judge Rudson Marcos to intervene. "Please, your honour, even defendants, even murderers, aren't treated the way I'm being treated," she said through sobs. Aranha was acquitted after Filho successfully argued his client had at worst committed "culpable rape" - in other words, that he did not realise Ferrer was unable to consent, according to news site The Intercept Brazil. But backlash broke out when the site published excerpts of the trial video. The National Justice Council (CNJ), a judicial oversight body, announced an investigation into Marcos's conduct. The hashtag #JusticeforMariFerrer was meanwhile a top trending topic on Twitter. "The scenes from Mariana Ferrer's trial are appalling. The justice system should be a place of refuge, not of torture and humiliation," tweeted Brazil Supreme Court Justice Gilmar Mendes.

Fury in Brazil over humiliation of woman at rape trial

India has underscored the need for the UN Security Council to effectively integrate women, peace and security considerations into the sanctions regimes, including by listing terrorist entities involved in violence against women in armed conflicts.

"Violence against women and girls perpetrated by terrorists deserve our strong condemnation. Such women-targeted violence distorts the very basis on which civilised societies rest," India said in a statement to the Security Council open debate on Women, Peace and Security Thursday.

India said advancing democratic structures and rule of law in post-conflict situations is instrumental to address the inequalities faced by women and to ensure their full and meaningful participation for peaceful and inclusive development.

"It is also important that the Council strives to effectively integrate WPS (Women, Peace and Security) considerations into sanctions regimes, including by listing terrorist entities involved in violence against women in armed conflicts," India said.

India noted that conflict and humanitarian crises already hold women and girls back from progress.

"The further burdening of the health care and the economic fall-out of COVID-19 threatens to put women and girls in war-torn, fragile and humanitarian contexts at even higher risk," the country said.

India said that through the Action for Peacekeeping initiative, the Member States are committed to implement the

Women, Peace and Security agenda by increasing the number of civilian and uniformed women in peacekeeping.

However, despite UN efforts, women form only 5.4 per cent of the military and 15.1 per cent of police in peacekeeping operations.

India reiterated its commitment to work for meaningful participation of women in peace and security issues, saying its experience of mainstreaming women's leadership and political participation will continue to inspire its actions.

Noting that while the Women, Peace and Security agenda has a transformative potential, India stressed that patriarchy, inequalities and discriminatory power structures inhibit effective conflict prevention, inclusive peace, women's rights and participation.

Realising a transformative potential of the Women, Peace and Security agenda will require moving from verbal commitments to action and governments, the UN, civil society and other actors must implement relevant commitments across all thematic areas.

"States must identify and address barriers to women's meaningful participation in the prevention and resolution of conflict, and in post-conflict peace-building efforts and programs," India said.

In 2007, India provided United Nations Mission in Liberia's first all-female Formed Police Unit (FPU), which provided critical policing support deterring sexual and gender-based violence and helped rebuild safety and confidence among the population.

The FPU proved to be strong and visible role model to the Liberian women, gaining world-wide attention.

India underlined that it attaches utmost importance to representation of women in decision making positions. More than 1.3 million elected women representatives in the country lead in formulation and implementation of public policies at grassroots level.&nbsp;

India has underscored the need for the UN Security Council to effectively integrate women, peace and security considerations into the sanctions regimes, including by listing terrorist entities involved in violence against women in armed conflicts.

India has underscored the need for the UN Security Council to effectively integrate women, peace and security considerations into the sanctions regimes, including by listing terrorist entities involved in violence against women in armed conflicts. "Violence against women and girls perpetrated by terrorists deserve our strong condemnation. Such women-targeted violence distorts the very basis on which civilised societies rest," India said in a statement to the Security Council open debate on Women, Peace and Security Thursday. India said advancing democratic structures and rule of law in post-conflict situations is instrumental to address the inequalities faced by women and to ensure their full and meaningful participation for peaceful and inclusive development. "It is also important that the Council strives to effectively integrate WPS (Women, Peace and Security) considerations into sanctions regimes, including by listing terrorist entities involved in violence against women in armed conflicts," India said. India noted that conflict and humanitarian crises already hold women and girls back from progress. "The further burdening of the health care and the economic fall-out of COVID-19 threatens to put women and girls in war-torn, fragile and humanitarian contexts at even higher risk," the country said. India said that through the Action for Peacekeeping initiative, the Member States are committed to implement the Women, Peace and Security agenda by increasing the number of civilian and uniformed women in peacekeeping. However, despite UN efforts, women form only 5.4 per cent of the military and 15.1 per cent of police in peacekeeping operations. India reiterated its commitment to work for meaningful participation of women in peace and security issues, saying its experience of mainstreaming women's leadership and political participation will continue to inspire its actions. Noting that while the Women, Peace and Security agenda has a transformative potential, India stressed that patriarchy, inequalities and discriminatory power structures inhibit effective conflict prevention, inclusive peace, women's rights and participation. Realising a transformative potential of the Women, Peace and Security agenda will require moving from verbal commitments to action and governments, the UN, civil society and other actors must implement relevant commitments across all thematic areas. "States must identify and address barriers to women's meaningful participation in the prevention and resolution of conflict, and in post-conflict peace-building efforts and programs," India said. In 2007, India provided United Nations Mission in Liberia's first all-female Formed Police Unit (FPU), which provided critical policing support deterring sexual and gender-based violence and helped rebuild safety and confidence among the population. The FPU proved to be strong and visible role model to the Liberian women, gaining world-wide attention. India underlined that it attaches utmost importance to representation of women in decision making positions. More than 1.3 million elected women representatives in the country lead in formulation and implementation of public policies at grassroots level.

India stresses UNSC to list terror entities involved in violence against women

The US Department of Justice on Wednesday announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020.&nbsp;

"The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence," US Attorney General William Barr said in the release.

According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner. Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner.

Domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners than those living in gun-free homes, the release said.

About 40 percent of Americans say that they or someone in their household has a gun, according to multiple public opinion surveys.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Department of Justice on Wednesday announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. "The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence.

The US Department of Justice on Wednesday announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. "The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence," US Attorney General William Barr said in the release. According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner. Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. Domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners than those living in gun-free homes, the release said. About 40 percent of Americans say that they or someone in their household has a gun, according to multiple public opinion surveys. (With inputs from agencies)

US Justice Department charges over 500 domestic violence-related firearm cases in 2020

A latest global survey carried out across 22 countries has revealed that girls and young women are one of the biggest targets of online violence and abuse.

Carried out by UK-based humanitarian organisation Plan International, the survey, titled "State of the World's Girls Report", involved 14,000 women aged 15-25 from 22 countries including India, Brazil, Nigeria, Spain, Australia, Japan, Thailand and the United States.

Ahead of the International Day of Girl Child 2020 on October 11, the survey highlighted that 58 per cent of the respondents accepted having faced online harassment or abuse on different social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and TikTok.

The percentage of affected women was similar for different regions around the globe.

"In Europe 63 per cent of girls reported harassment, followed by 60 per cent of girls in Latin America, 58 per cent in the Asia-Pacific region, 54 per cent in Africa, and 52 per cent in North America," the report found.

Ranging from threats of sexual violence to racist comments and stalking, online harassment of young women was directed in different manners.

Of the girls who have been harassed, 47 per cent have been threatened with physical or sexual violence, while 59 per cent faced abusive and insulting language online.

A large number of women from minority and LGBTQ+ communities said they were harassed because of their identities.

"Of the girls who were harassed, 42 per cent of the girls who identified themselves as LGBTIQ+; 14 per cent who self-identified as having a disability; and 37 per cent who identified themselves as from an ethnic minority said they get harassed because of it," found the survey conducted from April 1 to May 5.

Despite the anonymity that social media provides, girls and young women do know something about their harassers. Harassment from strangers was more frequent and more frightening than from people they knew.

"While 11 per cent of the surveyed girls were harassed by a current or former intimate partner, 21 per cent pointed towards friends and 23 per cent knew their harassers from school or work," it said.

Thirty six per cent of the respondents said they were harassed by strangers and 32 per cent by anonymous social media users.

Whilst women were listed in the examples of known harassers, none of the girls interviewed suggested women were behind the unknown accounts, many directly mentioned they thought they were men.

The abuse and harassment faced online also had its effect on life outside social media.

A total of 42 per cent women registered mental or emotional stress, and the same percentage of respondents accepted decrease in self-esteem and confidence because of online harassment.

Affected by the ill treatment online, one in five girls (19 per cent) have left or significantly reduced use of a social media platform after being harassed, while another one in ten (12 per cent) have changed the way they express themselves.

"Girls are being silenced by a toxic level of harassment. Activists, including those campaigning for gender equality and on LGBT+ issues, were often targeted particularly viciously, and their lives and families threatened," said Anne-Birgitte Albrectsen, Plan International's chief executive.

"Driving girls out of online spaces is hugely disempowering in an increasingly digital world, and damages their ability to be seen, heard and become leaders," she said.

A latest global survey carried out across 22 countries has revealed that girls and young women are one of the biggest targets of online violence and abuse. Carried out by UK-based humanitarian organisation Plan International, the survey, titled "State of the World's Girls Report", involved 14,000 women aged 15-25 from 22 countries including India, Brazil, Nigeria, Spain, Australia, Japan, Thailand and the United States.

A latest global survey carried out across 22 countries has revealed that girls and young women are one of the biggest targets of online violence and abuse. Carried out by UK-based humanitarian organisation Plan International, the survey, titled "State of the World's Girls Report", involved 14,000 women aged 15-25 from 22 countries including India, Brazil, Nigeria, Spain, Australia, Japan, Thailand and the United States. Ahead of the International Day of Girl Child 2020 on October 11, the survey highlighted that 58 per cent of the respondents accepted having faced online harassment or abuse on different social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and TikTok. The percentage of affected women was similar for different regions around the globe. "In Europe 63 per cent of girls reported harassment, followed by 60 per cent of girls in Latin America, 58 per cent in the Asia-Pacific region, 54 per cent in Africa, and 52 per cent in North America," the report found. Ranging from threats of sexual violence to racist comments and stalking, online harassment of young women was directed in different manners. Of the girls who have been harassed, 47 per cent have been threatened with physical or sexual violence, while 59 per cent faced abusive and insulting language online. A large number of women from minority and LGBTQ+ communities said they were harassed because of their identities. "Of the girls who were harassed, 42 per cent of the girls who identified themselves as LGBTIQ+; 14 per cent who self-identified as having a disability; and 37 per cent who identified themselves as from an ethnic minority said they get harassed because of it," found the survey conducted from April 1 to May 5. Despite the anonymity that social media provides, girls and young women do know something about their harassers. Harassment from strangers was more frequent and more frightening than from people they knew. "While 11 per cent of the surveyed girls were harassed by a current or former intimate partner, 21 per cent pointed towards friends and 23 per cent knew their harassers from school or work," it said. Thirty six per cent of the respondents said they were harassed by strangers and 32 per cent by anonymous social media users. Whilst women were listed in the examples of known harassers, none of the girls interviewed suggested women were behind the unknown accounts, many directly mentioned they thought they were men. The abuse and harassment faced online also had its effect on life outside social media. A total of 42 per cent women registered mental or emotional stress, and the same percentage of respondents accepted decrease in self-esteem and confidence because of online harassment. Affected by the ill treatment online, one in five girls (19 per cent) have left or significantly reduced use of a social media platform after being harassed, while another one in ten (12 per cent) have changed the way they express themselves. "Girls are being silenced by a toxic level of harassment. Activists, including those campaigning for gender equality and on LGBT+ issues, were often targeted particularly viciously, and their lives and families threatened," said Anne-Birgitte Albrectsen, Plan International's chief executive. "Driving girls out of online spaces is hugely disempowering in an increasingly digital world, and damages their ability to be seen, heard and become leaders," she said.

58% girls, young women face online harassment, abuse, says global survey 

An unnamed British lawmaker and former minister has been arrested on accusations of rape, sexual assault and coercive control.

According to the Sunday Times, a woman in her twenties reported to police she had been assaulted and forced to have sex. The woman was a former parliamentary employee, it said.

London's Metropolitan Police said it had received on Friday allegations relating to four separate incidents between July 2019 and January 2020.

The man in his 50s was arrested on Saturday, the police statement said.

Late on Saturday, the police said the lawmaker had been released on bail after being held in custody in an east London police station, and that he was to return in the middle of this month.

The police did not confirm any further details about the man's identity or occupation.

An unnamed British lawmaker and former minister has been arrested on accusations of rape, sexual assault and coercive control. According to the Sunday Times, a woman in her twenties reported to police she had been assaulted and forced to have sex.

An unnamed British lawmaker and former minister has been arrested on accusations of rape, sexual assault and coercive control. According to the Sunday Times, a woman in her twenties reported to police she had been assaulted and forced to have sex. The woman was a former parliamentary employee, it said. London's Metropolitan Police said it had received on Friday allegations relating to four separate incidents between July 2019 and January 2020. The man in his 50s was arrested on Saturday, the police statement said. Late on Saturday, the police said the lawmaker had been released on bail after being held in custody in an east London police station, and that he was to return in the middle of this month. The police did not confirm any further details about the man's identity or occupation.

British lawmaker arrested after rape allegation, says report

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts.

The Justice Department had planned to execute Wesley Purkey, convicted of raping and murdering a 16-year-old girl, at 4 pm EDT, despite objections by lawyers that he has dementia and no longer understands his punishment.

Purkey's lawyers complained in a court filing late Wednesday that the Justice Department had revealed at the last minute it held "scientific confirmation" of "significant structural abnormalities in Mr. Purkey’s brain that are consistent with cognitive impairment such as vascular dementia or other conditions."

Early on Wednesday, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington issued two injunctions to allow various legal challenges by some of the 61 inmates on federal death row to continue.

One of the injunctions also prevents the federal government from carrying out all scheduled executions, including Purkey's.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-first-federal-execution-in-17-years-313316">Also read |&nbsp;US carries out first federal execution in 17 years</a>

The Justice Department has set execution dates for two other men convicted of murdering children: Dustin Honken on Friday and Keith Nelson on August 28.

The Supreme Court has previously ruled it is "abhorrent" and unconstitutional to execute someone whose mental illness prevents them from comprehending their punishment.

The Justice Department is appealing the injunctions in both the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit and the Supreme Court.

Purkey, 68, was convicted in 2003 in Missouri. He dumped his victim's dismembered and burned remains in a septic pond.

(with inputs from Reuters)

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts.

A US judge in Washington has blocked what would have been the second federal execution in 17 years, hours before it was to take place. Her orders, however, may yet be reversed as the Department of Justice challenges them in higher courts. The Justice Department had planned to execute Wesley Purkey, convicted of raping and murdering a 16-year-old girl, at 4 pm EDT, despite objections by lawyers that he has dementia and no longer understands his punishment. Purkey's lawyers complained in a court filing late Wednesday that the Justice Department had revealed at the last minute it held "scientific confirmation" of "significant structural abnormalities in Mr. Purkey’s brain that are consistent with cognitive impairment such as vascular dementia or other conditions." Early on Wednesday, US District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington issued two injunctions to allow various legal challenges by some of the 61 inmates on federal death row to continue. One of the injunctions also prevents the federal government from carrying out all scheduled executions, including Purkey's. Also read | US carries out first federal execution in 17 years The Justice Department has set execution dates for two other men convicted of murdering children: Dustin Honken on Friday and Keith Nelson on August 28. The Supreme Court has previously ruled it is "abhorrent" and unconstitutional to execute someone whose mental illness prevents them from comprehending their punishment. The Justice Department is appealing the injunctions in both the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit and the Supreme Court. Purkey, 68, was convicted in 2003 in Missouri. He dumped his victim's dismembered and burned remains in a septic pond. (with inputs from Reuters)

US judge blocks second federal execution in 17 years

The first law on domestic violence was passed just 40 years back. Domestic violence is something that can also impact a country's economy.

A new World Bank report on domestic violence throws light on some startling facts.

The World Bank's group project 'Women, Business and the Law' has analysed five decades of data to track the global progress in the enactment of domestic violence legislation.

What began with Ireland in 1981, 155 countries have now introduced domestic violence legislation.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/75-of-children-die-in-mass-shootings-in-us-were-victims-of-domestic-violence-report-263699">75% of children died in mass shootings in US were victims of domestic violence</a>

Over the past two years, eight countries including the UAE, Armenia, Burkina Faso and Morocco have adopted laws on domestic violence for the first time.

While 80 per cent of countries provide legal protection to women, 35 per cent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime by an intimate partner.&nbsp;

137 women across the world are murdered by a member of their family every day.&nbsp;

According to the report titled 'Pointing the finger at domestic violence', women suffering domestic violence are at higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-650000-sign-russia-petition-to-boost-domestic-violence-law-239456">Over 650,000 sign Russia petition to boost domestic violence law</a>

Their daughters are more likely to be abused by their partners and their sons more likely to become abusers themselves.

Interestingly, women's safety is as crucial to the economy as it is to women themselves.

Taking into account costs borne by women and their countries due to expenditure on health care, legal, housing, and social services.

The economic cost of domestic violence has been estimated to correspond to about 4.4 trillion dollars or 5.2 per cent of global GDP.

Today, 35 countries in every region of the world still lack legislation aimed at protecting women from violence.

The first law on domestic violence was passed just 40 years back. Domestic violence is something that can also impact a country's economy. A new World Bank report on domestic violence throws light on some startling facts.

The first law on domestic violence was passed just 40 years back. Domestic violence is something that can also impact a country's economy. A new World Bank report on domestic violence throws light on some startling facts. The World Bank's group project 'Women, Business and the Law' has analysed five decades of data to track the global progress in the enactment of domestic violence legislation. What began with Ireland in 1981, 155 countries have now introduced domestic violence legislation. Also read: 75% of children died in mass shootings in US were victims of domestic violence Over the past two years, eight countries including the UAE, Armenia, Burkina Faso and Morocco have adopted laws on domestic violence for the first time. While 80 per cent of countries provide legal protection to women, 35 per cent of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime by an intimate partner. 137 women across the world are murdered by a member of their family every day. According to the report titled 'Pointing the finger at domestic violence', women suffering domestic violence are at higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Also read: Over 650,000 sign Russia petition to boost domestic violence law Their daughters are more likely to be abused by their partners and their sons more likely to become abusers themselves. Interestingly, women's safety is as crucial to the economy as it is to women themselves. Taking into account costs borne by women and their countries due to expenditure on health care, legal, housing, and social services. The economic cost of domestic violence has been estimated to correspond to about 4.4 trillion dollars or 5.2 per cent of global GDP. Today, 35 countries in every region of the world still lack legislation aimed at protecting women from violence.

Domestic violence: World Bank report puts forth shocking revelations 

The crime rate against women in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tripura-two-bangladeshi-two-turkish-nationals-sent-to-6-days-police-remand-for-atm-hacking-271804">Tripura</a> has reduced by seven per cent during the last two years of the BJP-IPFT rule in the state, said Ratanlal Nath, state Law Minister. 
 
"As statistics show a growth rate of crime against women in other parts of the country, in north-eastern Tripura state, it has come down by seven per cent. The crime rate against women in Tripura has reduced from 25 per cent in 2016-2017 to 18.23 per cent during the last two years of BJP-IPFT rule in the state," said Nath. 
 
According to Nath during the year 2016 and 2017 out of the total 7,888 criminal cases, the number of cases of crimes against women was 1,974 at a rate of 82.25 crimes per month. 
 
"However, during the following two years (2018 and 2019) out of a total, 10,521 criminal cases reported incidents of crime against women were 1,919 and at a rate 79 crimes registered per month," Nath added. 
 
Earlier Nath also gave detailed statistics along with the year-wise breakup of the crime figure of the state during the Left Front's last two years and the first two years BJP-IPFT government which came to power in early 2018. 
 
The Law Minister claimed that after the change in the regime in Tripura, the crime rate has gone down while the conviction rate has increased and it reveals that the state's law and order are improving. 
 
"All other crime indicators including incidents of murder, rape, molestation, torture in the state during the last two years have reduced, which is a healthy sign. However, the government is not happy with this as it wants to bring the crime rate to zero," said Nath.

The crime rate against women in Tripura has reduced by seven per cent during the last two years of the BJP-IPFT rule in the state, said Ratanlal Nath, state Law Minister.

The crime rate against women in Tripura has reduced by seven per cent during the last two years of the BJP-IPFT rule in the state, said Ratanlal Nath, state Law Minister. "As statistics show a growth rate of crime against women in other parts of the country, in north-eastern Tripura state, it has come down by seven per cent. The crime rate against women in Tripura has reduced from 25 per cent in 2016-2017 to 18.23 per cent during the last two years of BJP-IPFT rule in the state," said Nath. According to Nath during the year 2016 and 2017 out of the total 7,888 criminal cases, the number of cases of crimes against women was 1,974 at a rate of 82.25 crimes per month. "However, during the following two years (2018 and 2019) out of a total, 10,521 criminal cases reported incidents of crime against women were 1,919 and at a rate 79 crimes registered per month," Nath added. Earlier Nath also gave detailed statistics along with the year-wise breakup of the crime figure of the state during the Left Front's last two years and the first two years BJP-IPFT government which came to power in early 2018. The Law Minister claimed that after the change in the regime in Tripura, the crime rate has gone down while the conviction rate has increased and it reveals that the state's law and order are improving. "All other crime indicators including incidents of murder, rape, molestation, torture in the state during the last two years have reduced, which is a healthy sign. However, the government is not happy with this as it wants to bring the crime rate to zero," said Nath.

Crime against women reduced 7% in Tripura: Law Minister Ratanlal Nath

Last year during an assignment I met an 11-month-old baby who was brutally raped in the national capital and she had to undergo an operation, her eyes continue to haunt me. The baby girl underwent a three-hour-long operation. She had horrific injuries in her internal organs.

I wanted to investigate why are we termed rape capital of the world. What is it that we are doing wrong?&nbsp;

Most of the times police denies giving the data on crime against women to journalists. The Delhi Commission for Women somehow got the data that explained the shocking law and order problem in the capital. Between 2012 and 2014, 31,446 crimes against women were reported in the capital and only less than 150 were convicted. It is for a fact that criminals and offenders are not scared in Delhi.

But what are the significant steps that the state and police have been taking?

Our police force is not even digitised. There are no digital arrangements which can update us about the number of cases filed and resolved, which police officer is performing well and accountability of the system.

There are police officers who are working at a stretch for 48 hours too. For years, Delhi Police has been demanding sixty thousand additional police force but they haven't got it yet.

DCW says that Out of 7500 samples pending forensic investigations, 1500 samples cross the expiry and forensic samples are not even tested for months. The number of courts and judges are painfully less. The mother of Nirbhaya had told once that sometimes she feels happy that her daughter is no more. At least she doesn't have to go through the humiliation of seeking justice, delayed justice and sometimes no justice at all.

This needs to be changed, but the story of women's safety is quite tragic and it's tragic because there are so many dimensions. There is state, government, society, patriarchy, and especially the mindsets that need to be changed.

At the same time, the tragedy of the story is that the stakeholders involved in it, somehow want it to remain a complex topic. It can't be broken down.

In 2012, Parliament made a special task force which was supposed to meet two times every month but it met only 11 times in three years, later it was disbanded.

All the stakeholders need to sit down on the same table and need to make our daughters safe and not the cows. Nearly 90 per cent of women have been stared at, been told not to do particular things, to stand properly, to speak properly and to sit properly. Ohh, offline and online abuses are part of the day.

Where is the real problem? Why this rape occurs and why rape is wrong?

Asking most friends, usually the Indian mindset answers you that rape occurs when a man, probably from the poor background, rural, uneducated comes across a girl wearing short skirts, possibly drunk, outside late at night. It is important for the girl to be under western influence to be raped.

Why rape is wrong? Because it violates her dignity honour of family, community and nation's respect.

So are we protecting women for the right reasons?

If we think that the problem of rape occurs because of the violation of gender norms, we are still thinking that men need to protect women and it is the men who are failing to protect enough. Then we end up having campaigns like real men don't rape, protecting women is a religion, but the obvious problem is that a man has to choose whether to protect the woman or not. The woman herself has no agency and no say. If we think rape is a violation of gender-based boundaries and if we think that women shouldn't be out in certain hours and women should be staying at home, then, do women have the right to occupy public place? &nbsp;

Politicians say rape happens in 'India' but not 'Bharat.' They are placing India within a specific religious, moral, cultural and ethical framework and tell us that the rapes happen due to western influence.

The message of not wearing inappropriate dresses is always visible and it is inappropriate culturally. People like you and me agree rape is wrong but you don't have to be a rapist to be a part of the problem.

Thinking of rape is wrong because of wrong reasons are also part of the problem. Rape is not about sex, but it's a social disease. 
 
Right in the centre of Delhi, there is a place called GB road. GB road exists 3 km from the parliament. There are 5000 women, there are 90 brothels and there are 600 odd children and nobody wants to talk about it. The women working there entertain at least 30 men in a day. A police station exists just 100 meters away.

The system knows and the police know what is happening in the centre of Delhi, but it can't really stop rapes for sure.&nbsp;We have a much larger social disease, a product of power imbalances, caste, religion and imbalances of gender and identity. If your responses are nested in those exact power structures, If you want to resolve by strengthening the exact same power structure then you are part of the problem and further the problem.

For India rape is a problem because its the matter of honour, that's why marital rape is still not illegal in India. Culture, religion, family and every institution won't debate about it because it doesn't violate our so-called 'culture.'

Rape is wrong in India because of the problem of honour, that is why a Khap Panchayat in Haryana also thinks rape is the way to give justice. Panchayats have been outrageously okay to come up with punishments to gang rape a girl that could affect her family and community's reputation and honour.

This is why rape is used as a political tool. By raping a woman you are damaging the community's honour but nobody cares about the woman.

In Gurgaon, a new rule was introduced in 2014, women couldn't work after 8 pm and all it did is that it strengthened the social framework that leads to leaving women objectified and vulnerable.

Rape is wrong but not for the right reasons. Rape is a violation of an individual's rights. It is important to understand why rape is wrong and don't just stay as part of the problem. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Last year during an assignment I met an 11-month-old baby who was brutally raped in the national capital and she had to undergo an operation, her eyes continue to haunt me.

Last year during an assignment I met an 11-month-old baby who was brutally raped in the national capital and she had to undergo an operation, her eyes continue to haunt me. The baby girl underwent a three-hour-long operation. She had horrific injuries in her internal organs. I wanted to investigate why are we termed rape capital of the world. What is it that we are doing wrong? Most of the times police denies giving the data on crime against women to journalists. The Delhi Commission for Women somehow got the data that explained the shocking law and order problem in the capital. Between 2012 and 2014, 31,446 crimes against women were reported in the capital and only less than 150 were convicted. It is for a fact that criminals and offenders are not scared in Delhi. But what are the significant steps that the state and police have been taking? Our police force is not even digitised. There are no digital arrangements which can update us about the number of cases filed and resolved, which police officer is performing well and accountability of the system. There are police officers who are working at a stretch for 48 hours too. For years, Delhi Police has been demanding sixty thousand additional police force but they haven't got it yet. DCW says that Out of 7500 samples pending forensic investigations, 1500 samples cross the expiry and forensic samples are not even tested for months. The number of courts and judges are painfully less. The mother of Nirbhaya had told once that sometimes she feels happy that her daughter is no more. At least she doesn't have to go through the humiliation of seeking justice, delayed justice and sometimes no justice at all. This needs to be changed, but the story of women's safety is quite tragic and it's tragic because there are so many dimensions. There is state, government, society, patriarchy, and especially the mindsets that need to be changed. At the same time, the tragedy of the story is that the stakeholders involved in it, somehow want it to remain a complex topic. It can't be broken down. In 2012, Parliament made a special task force which was supposed to meet two times every month but it met only 11 times in three years, later it was disbanded. All the stakeholders need to sit down on the same table and need to make our daughters safe and not the cows. Nearly 90 per cent of women have been stared at, been told not to do particular things, to stand properly, to speak properly and to sit properly. Ohh, offline and online abuses are part of the day. Where is the real problem? Why this rape occurs and why rape is wrong? Asking most friends, usually the Indian mindset answers you that rape occurs when a man, probably from the poor background, rural, uneducated comes across a girl wearing short skirts, possibly drunk, outside late at night. It is important for the girl to be under western influence to be raped. Why rape is wrong? Because it violates her dignity honour of family, community and nation's respect. So are we protecting women for the right reasons? If we think that the problem of rape occurs because of the violation of gender norms, we are still thinking that men need to protect women and it is the men who are failing to protect enough. Then we end up having campaigns like real men don't rape, protecting women is a religion, but the obvious problem is that a man has to choose whether to protect the woman or not. The woman herself has no agency and no say. If we think rape is a violation of gender-based boundaries and if we think that women shouldn't be out in certain hours and women should be staying at home, then, do women have the right to occupy public place? Politicians say rape happens in 'India' but not 'Bharat.' They are placing India within a specific religious, moral, cultural and ethical framework and tell us that the rapes happen due to western influence. The message of not wearing inappropriate dresses is always visible and it is inappropriate culturally. People like you and me agree rape is wrong but you don't have to be a rapist to be a part of the problem. Thinking of rape is wrong because of wrong reasons are also part of the problem. Rape is not about sex, but it's a social disease. Right in the centre of Delhi, there is a place called GB road. GB road exists 3 km from the parliament. There are 5000 women, there are 90 brothels and there are 600 odd children and nobody wants to talk about it. The women working there entertain at least 30 men in a day. A police station exists just 100 meters away. The system knows and the police know what is happening in the centre of Delhi, but it can't really stop rapes for sure. We have a much larger social disease, a product of power imbalances, caste, religion and imbalances of gender and identity. If your responses are nested in those exact power structures, If you want to resolve by strengthening the exact same power structure then you are part of the problem and further the problem. For India rape is a problem because its the matter of honour, that's why marital rape is still not illegal in India. Culture, religion, family and every institution won't debate about it because it doesn't violate our so-called 'culture.' Rape is wrong in India because of the problem of honour, that is why a Khap Panchayat in Haryana also thinks rape is the way to give justice. Panchayats have been outrageously okay to come up with punishments to gang rape a girl that could affect her family and community's reputation and honour. This is why rape is used as a political tool. By raping a woman you are damaging the community's honour but nobody cares about the woman. In Gurgaon, a new rule was introduced in 2014, women couldn't work after 8 pm and all it did is that it strengthened the social framework that leads to leaving women objectified and vulnerable. Rape is wrong but not for the right reasons. Rape is a violation of an individual's rights. It is important to understand why rape is wrong and don't just stay as part of the problem. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India rape crisis: Are we part of the problem?

Vice President Venkaiah Nadu on Sunday expressed concern over the growing crimes against women in the country and said that the change of mindset is the need of the hour to curb the menace.

"In Indian tradition, we treat women as our mothers and as sisters but what has happened in recent days in certain parts of the country is really shameful and is a challenge for all of us. The change in the mindset is the need of the hour. Such incidents are bringing a bad name to India. We must never denigrate our country," he said while addressing a function in Pune.

"We should collectively create psychology and a mindset in the society which condemns and denounced such bad practices. Promoting better practices is the need of the hour and which is why I feel that in every educational institute, with education, we should also educate children about our culture. This should be the responsibility of the teachers".

"We must all take an owe to see that this sort of discrimination, this sort of atrocity are stopped. We should not look at it from the angle of religion and also from the angle of the region. We should not look it from the political prism. The moment you look it from the political prism, the cause is lost."

"Bringing new laws are not the solution, however, I am not against bringing any new law or the new Bill. We brought the Bill on Nirbhaya what happened? Is the problem solved? So, I always feel that what is required is not a Bill rather a political and administrative skill to kill the social evils of the society," he added.&nbsp;

Vice President Venkaiah Nadu on Sunday expressed concern over the growing crimes against women in the country and said that the change of mindset is the need of the hour to curb the menace.

Vice President Venkaiah Nadu on Sunday expressed concern over the growing crimes against women in the country and said that the change of mindset is the need of the hour to curb the menace. "In Indian tradition, we treat women as our mothers and as sisters but what has happened in recent days in certain parts of the country is really shameful and is a challenge for all of us. The change in the mindset is the need of the hour. Such incidents are bringing a bad name to India. We must never denigrate our country," he said while addressing a function in Pune. "We should collectively create psychology and a mindset in the society which condemns and denounced such bad practices. Promoting better practices is the need of the hour and which is why I feel that in every educational institute, with education, we should also educate children about our culture. This should be the responsibility of the teachers". "We must all take an owe to see that this sort of discrimination, this sort of atrocity are stopped. We should not look at it from the angle of religion and also from the angle of the region. We should not look it from the political prism. The moment you look it from the political prism, the cause is lost." "Bringing new laws are not the solution, however, I am not against bringing any new law or the new Bill. We brought the Bill on Nirbhaya what happened? Is the problem solved? So, I always feel that what is required is not a Bill rather a political and administrative skill to kill the social evils of the society," he added.

VP Venkaiah Naidu calls for a mindset change to end crime against women

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-kamal-nath-calls-on-pm-modi-discusses-issues-concerning-his-state-224944">Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath</a> has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively.

Some other issues related to the state were discussed during the Sunday meeting, officials said on Monday.

Nath, who took over as the chief minister in December, has also written a letter to the home minister in this regard.

In the letter, he drew the home minister's attention towards one of the sensitive issues of the crime against women and children.

"Considering the sensitivity of this issue, the state government is proposing a project for comprehensive set up of investigating officers/legal advisors/prosecutors and counsellors apart from DNA laboratories and mobile forensic teams exclusively for dealing with the crime against women and children. The budget outlay required is Rs 880 crore," Nath said.

He requested the home minister to support this initiative as "this will help in dealing with one of the most sensitive issues in the state".

In a horrific incident, an eight-year-old girl was raped and murdered in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal earlier this month.&nbsp;

According to the latest data of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 34,651 cases of rape were registered in 2015. The number increased to 38,947 in 2016.&nbsp;

Overall crimes against women rose from 3,29,243 in 2015 to 3,38,954 in 2016, according to the NCRB data.&nbsp;

The highest number of rapes has been reported from Madhya Pradesh (4,882), followed by Uttar Pradesh (4,816) and Maharashtra (4,189) in 2016, it said.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh has reported 6,016 cases of kidnapping and abduction of children in 2016, the data said. There were 2,467 cases of child rape in the state in 2016.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has met Home Minister Amit Shah and asked him to release over Rs 800 crore as central grant to check crime against women and children in his state more effectively. Some other issues related to the state were discussed during the Sunday meeting, officials said on Monday. Nath, who took over as the chief minister in December, has also written a letter to the home minister in this regard. In the letter, he drew the home minister's attention towards one of the sensitive issues of the crime against women and children. "Considering the sensitivity of this issue, the state government is proposing a project for comprehensive set up of investigating officers/legal advisors/prosecutors and counsellors apart from DNA laboratories and mobile forensic teams exclusively for dealing with the crime against women and children. The budget outlay required is Rs 880 crore," Nath said. He requested the home minister to support this initiative as "this will help in dealing with one of the most sensitive issues in the state". In a horrific incident, an eight-year-old girl was raped and murdered in Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal earlier this month. According to the latest data of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), as many as 34,651 cases of rape were registered in 2015. The number increased to 38,947 in 2016. Overall crimes against women rose from 3,29,243 in 2015 to 3,38,954 in 2016, according to the NCRB data. The highest number of rapes has been reported from Madhya Pradesh (4,882), followed by Uttar Pradesh (4,816) and Maharashtra (4,189) in 2016, it said. Madhya Pradesh has reported 6,016 cases of kidnapping and abduction of children in 2016, the data said. There were 2,467 cases of child rape in the state in 2016.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath seeks over Rs 800 crore central grant to tackle crime against women

By Renee Coulouris

Despite recent success in Tunisia, which elected the capital’s first female mayor in July, many women around the world continue to experience significant violence around election time. This type of violence is not exclusive to one region of the world, but is experienced by women globally as seen in the recent elections in Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Mexico. Both female voters and politicians have experienced increased harassment, violence and psychological abuse. Electoral violence against women must be addressed and ultimately prevented as it is damaging for states attempting to maintain inclusive governance and democratic societies.

Harassment against women, including acts of domestic violence, tends to increase during electoral periods and is not limited to a single culture or context. In 2016, an Inter-Parliamentary Union report discovered that 44 per cent of surveyed elected female officials experienced threats of rape, death and abductions while in office. Threats of violence and acts of violence dissuade female politicians from continuing to run for political positions and also discourages women from voting. Research has confirmed that hindering female political participation negatively impacts constituencies and undermines the overall political process in countries around the world.

During Zimbabwe’s contentious 2018 general election, female politicians faced multiple barriers when competing for office. In many cases, women received frequent&nbsp;threats from opponents, members of their own party and even from their own family members. During the election period, female politicians experience intense psycho-social violence, particularly with the growing prevalence and importance of social media. Unlike their male counterparts, female politicians are called demeaning names and subjected to gender stereotyping. For example, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) quotes one interviewee noting that “A woman still cannot question an MP in parliament without being [told] her thighs are too big.”

Female voters also experience similar cruelty during electoral periods. Throughout ultra-conservative regions of Pakistan, such as in a village near Khubab, in the Punjab region, many women were only able to vote for the first time since independence in 1947 in the 2018 general election even though they have been legally enfranchised since 1956. Despite this milestone, Pakistani women continue to face violence and restrictions when attempting to exercise their right to vote. They are hindered by discrimination that takes place at polling booths as well as outright declarations from the jirgas, or councils of elders, forbidding women to vote, threatening to be shunned from their communities.

These traditional and religious barriers, plus the lack of segregated voting stations, means Pakistani women tend to stay at home instead of exercising their right to vote due to fear of retribution, backlash and even threats to their personal safety. Globally, Pakistan is ranked last when it comes to female participation in elections.

It is critical to promote peaceful and violence-free elections, which necessitates full gender inclusivity at every step of the electoral process. An example of a positive innovation for women within electoral periods is the creation of IFES’ Women against Violence in Elections Advisory Group in Bangladesh, which is an innovative community forum that empowers community members — both women and men — to discuss ways to mitigate electoral violence against women and how to promote overall peaceful elections. The use of community forums and awareness trainings equips women, and also men, with the tools to respond to violent threats and effectively report them back to the authorities.

Legislation can be utilized to protect women against harassment and violence during elections. However, many countries do not have extensive laws protecting women during electoral periods, such as is the reality in Zimbabwe and Pakistan; and if they do, the laws are often not enforced. A positive example of useful legislation is the case of Bolivia, which passed Law 243 specifically focusing on how to address violence against women surrounding elections. Unfortunately, limited financial resources prevent the law from being fully be implemented.

Impunity is an egregious injustice that allows electoral violence against women to continue. In many cases, women are unable to report acts of violence to authorities without fear of backlash or lack of confidence in the officials to do their jobs. Beyond legislation, governments need to support and work with community forums and local non-governmental organizations to both combat electoral violence as well as empower women during electoral periods, whether in their roles as voters or politicians. For instance, governments can hold community forums with security officials, female and male politicians, and other community members to collectively discuss the violence women face during elections and the obstacles they face in finding justice. Including security officials may build more solid relationships between women and those who are supposed to protect them and uphold their rights during electoral times.

In the atmosphere of fear and violence against women voters and politicians during election periods, a country’s overall ability to represent its citizens is diminished as women’s voices are prevented from being represented within the elected governments. This discrepancy perpetuates a vicious circle wherein women will continue to be underrepresented and often outright harmed by legislation that they had no say in. 
 
(Renee Coulouris is the 2018 gender in foreign policy fellow at Young Professionals in Foreign Policy)

(This article was originally published on Fair Observer. Read the <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/more/global_change/women-in-politics-election-violence-sexual-harassment-womens-rights-news-17612/">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

By Renee Coulouris Despite recent success in Tunisia, which elected the capital’s first female mayor in July, many women around the world continue to experience significant violence around election time.

By Renee Coulouris Despite recent success in Tunisia, which elected the capital’s first female mayor in July, many women around the world continue to experience significant violence around election time. This type of violence is not exclusive to one region of the world, but is experienced by women globally as seen in the recent elections in Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Mexico. Both female voters and politicians have experienced increased harassment, violence and psychological abuse. Electoral violence against women must be addressed and ultimately prevented as it is damaging for states attempting to maintain inclusive governance and democratic societies. Harassment against women, including acts of domestic violence, tends to increase during electoral periods and is not limited to a single culture or context. In 2016, an Inter-Parliamentary Union report discovered that 44 per cent of surveyed elected female officials experienced threats of rape, death and abductions while in office. Threats of violence and acts of violence dissuade female politicians from continuing to run for political positions and also discourages women from voting. Research has confirmed that hindering female political participation negatively impacts constituencies and undermines the overall political process in countries around the world. During Zimbabwe’s contentious 2018 general election, female politicians faced multiple barriers when competing for office. In many cases, women received frequent threats from opponents, members of their own party and even from their own family members. During the election period, female politicians experience intense psycho-social violence, particularly with the growing prevalence and importance of social media. Unlike their male counterparts, female politicians are called demeaning names and subjected to gender stereotyping. For example, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) quotes one interviewee noting that “A woman still cannot question an MP in parliament without being [told] her thighs are too big.” Female voters also experience similar cruelty during electoral periods. Throughout ultra-conservative regions of Pakistan, such as in a village near Khubab, in the Punjab region, many women were only able to vote for the first time since independence in 1947 in the 2018 general election even though they have been legally enfranchised since 1956. Despite this milestone, Pakistani women continue to face violence and restrictions when attempting to exercise their right to vote. They are hindered by discrimination that takes place at polling booths as well as outright declarations from the jirgas, or councils of elders, forbidding women to vote, threatening to be shunned from their communities. These traditional and religious barriers, plus the lack of segregated voting stations, means Pakistani women tend to stay at home instead of exercising their right to vote due to fear of retribution, backlash and even threats to their personal safety. Globally, Pakistan is ranked last when it comes to female participation in elections. It is critical to promote peaceful and violence-free elections, which necessitates full gender inclusivity at every step of the electoral process. An example of a positive innovation for women within electoral periods is the creation of IFES’ Women against Violence in Elections Advisory Group in Bangladesh, which is an innovative community forum that empowers community members — both women and men — to discuss ways to mitigate electoral violence against women and how to promote overall peaceful elections. The use of community forums and awareness trainings equips women, and also men, with the tools to respond to violent threats and effectively report them back to the authorities. Legislation can be utilized to protect women against harassment and violence during elections. However, many countries do not have extensive laws protecting women during electoral periods, such as is the reality in Zimbabwe and Pakistan; and if they do, the laws are often not enforced. A positive example of useful legislation is the case of Bolivia, which passed Law 243 specifically focusing on how to address violence against women surrounding elections. Unfortunately, limited financial resources prevent the law from being fully be implemented. Impunity is an egregious injustice that allows electoral violence against women to continue. In many cases, women are unable to report acts of violence to authorities without fear of backlash or lack of confidence in the officials to do their jobs. Beyond legislation, governments need to support and work with community forums and local non-governmental organizations to both combat electoral violence as well as empower women during electoral periods, whether in their roles as voters or politicians. For instance, governments can hold community forums with security officials, female and male politicians, and other community members to collectively discuss the violence women face during elections and the obstacles they face in finding justice. Including security officials may build more solid relationships between women and those who are supposed to protect them and uphold their rights during electoral times. In the atmosphere of fear and violence against women voters and politicians during election periods, a country’s overall ability to represent its citizens is diminished as women’s voices are prevented from being represented within the elected governments. This discrepancy perpetuates a vicious circle wherein women will continue to be underrepresented and often outright harmed by legislation that they had no say in. (Renee Coulouris is the 2018 gender in foreign policy fellow at Young Professionals in Foreign Policy) (This article was originally published on Fair Observer. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Electoral violence against women hinders Democracy worldwide

Reluctance to report a sexual assault to police immediately does not mean the victim is lying, as Indian women would rarely make such false allegations, the Bombay High Court has said, upholding the conviction of four men for gang-rape.

Justice AM Badar earlier this week dismissed the appeals of Dattatraya Korde, Ganesh Pardeshi, Pintu Khoskar and Ganesh Zole, who had challenged a sessions court order of April 2013 sentencing them to 10 years in jail for gang-rape.

They were convicted of gang-raping a woman and thrashing her male friend on March 15, 2012, when the two were returning from Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district. The convicts claimed that they were framed up as they had seen the victim and her friend in a compromising position and threatened to take them to police for indecent behaviour.

The appeals sought to highlight that while the woman claimed that the incident took place on March 15, she lodged the complaint two days later. A medical examination had ruled out a rape since there was no injury on the woman's body, the appellants said.

The high court, however, upheld the conviction and sentence, citing a Supreme Court's observation in a past case that "rarely will a girl or woman in India make false allegations of sexual assault". The victim, who comes from a conservative section of society and who is separated from her husband, must have been afraid of stigma and "reflection on her chastity", Justice Badar said.

"She had fear of being looked down upon by the society including her parents... Being overpowered by a feeling of shame on account of gang-rape, her non-approaching a police station immediately...Cannot be said to be abnormal and throwing doubt on her version," the judge said.

Because of her secret excursion with a male friend, she must have felt that she would be branded as promiscuous if the incident came to light, the high court said. "Minor discrepancies" such as delay in lodging the complaint does not weaken her case, the court said.

The judge also held that a mere absence of injuries do not lead to the conclusion that there was no sexual assault.&nbsp

The judge also held that a mere absence of injuries does not lead to the conclusion that there was no sexual assault.

Reluctance to report a sexual assault to police immediately does not mean the victim is lying, as Indian women would rarely make such false allegations, the Bombay High Court has said, upholding the conviction of four men for gang-rape. Justice AM Badar earlier this week dismissed the appeals of Dattatraya Korde, Ganesh Pardeshi, Pintu Khoskar and Ganesh Zole, who had challenged a sessions court order of April 2013 sentencing them to 10 years in jail for gang-rape. They were convicted of gang-raping a woman and thrashing her male friend on March 15, 2012, when the two were returning from Trimbakeshwar in Nashik district. The convicts claimed that they were framed up as they had seen the victim and her friend in a compromising position and threatened to take them to police for indecent behaviour. The appeals sought to highlight that while the woman claimed that the incident took place on March 15, she lodged the complaint two days later. A medical examination had ruled out a rape since there was no injury on the woman's body, the appellants said. The high court, however, upheld the conviction and sentence, citing a Supreme Court's observation in a past case that "rarely will a girl or woman in India make false allegations of sexual assault". The victim, who comes from a conservative section of society and who is separated from her husband, must have been afraid of stigma and "reflection on her chastity", Justice Badar said. "She had fear of being looked down upon by the society including her parents... Being overpowered by a feeling of shame on account of gang-rape, her non-approaching a police station immediately...Cannot be said to be abnormal and throwing doubt on her version," the judge said. Because of her secret excursion with a male friend, she must have felt that she would be branded as promiscuous if the incident came to light, the high court said. "Minor discrepancies" such as delay in lodging the complaint does not weaken her case, the court said. The judge also held that a mere absence of injuries do not lead to the conclusion that there was no sexual assault.

Delay in lodging rape complaint doesn’t mean victim is lying: Bombay HC

Popular Haryanavi folk singer Mamta Sharma has been found dead with her throat slit in Baniyani village.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Haryana: Folk singer Mamta murdered, body dumped in field in Rohtak&#39;s Baniyani village.Police have sent the body for postmortem
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/953993338046287873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A resident of Kalanaur village, Sharma was a popular folk singer famous for singing at religious events.

News reports quoted her son Bharat as saying that she had gone to attend an event on January 15, and had not returned.

A missing person&#39;s complaint was filed by a Mohit Kumar who was accompanying Mamta to the event.

News reports quoted Kumar as saying they had come across some people on the way whom Mamta had gone with to Gohana, Sonipat. She told Kumar she would return in a few hours.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-year-old-singer-from-haryana-shot-dead-in-suspected-case-of-enmity-22578" target="_blank">22-year-old Haryana singer Harshita Dahiya shot dead, police suspect case of enmity</a>

Police have begun an investigation into the murder.

Haryana has been in the spotlight over the last few days with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-rape-in-haryana-the-sixth-in-six-days-29983" target="_blank">six rapes</a> being reported from the state in as many days.&nbsp;

Sharma was a popular folk singer famous for singing at religious events

Popular Haryanavi folk singer Mamta Sharma has been found dead with her throat slit in Baniyani village. Haryana: Folk singer Mamta murdered, body dumped in field in Rohtak's Baniyani village.Police have sent the body for postmortem — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2018 × A resident of Kalanaur village, Sharma was a popular folk singer famous for singing at religious events. News reports quoted her son Bharat as saying that she had gone to attend an event on January 15, and had not returned. A missing person's complaint was filed by a Mohit Kumar who was accompanying Mamta to the event. News reports quoted Kumar as saying they had come across some people on the way whom Mamta had gone with to Gohana, Sonipat. She told Kumar she would return in a few hours. Also read: 22-year-old Haryana singer Harshita Dahiya shot dead, police suspect case of enmity Police have begun an investigation into the murder. Haryana has been in the spotlight over the last few days with six rapes being reported from the state in as many days.

Haryana folk singer Mamta Sharma murdered, found with her throat slit

Another rape was reported on Thursday from Haryana, a state that is already under the scanner. This is the sixth rape in six days.

This latest rape, of a college student, was reported from Gurugram district&#39;s Farrukhnagar.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haryana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haryana</a>: College student allegedly raped in Gurugram district&#39;s Farrukhnagar on Monday. Case registered against 2 accused.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/953978873464610816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The rape occurred on&nbsp;Monday, with a case being registered against two accused on Thursday.

Further details of the case are&nbsp;awaited.

Meanwhile, National Commission for Women Chairperson Rekha Sharma <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/harayana-police-do-not-know-how-to-behave-with-women-ncw-chairperson-rekha-sharma-29943" target="_blank">slammed Haryana Police</a> Thursday.&nbsp;

She said she had asked the Haryana Police Commissioner for a detailed report on the rapes, but that she had not been satisfied with it.

She then said she had been getting a number of complaints about Haryana policemen. And that they did not know &quot;how to behave with women&quot;.

The Haryana rapes have included the gang rape of an&nbsp;11 year old&nbsp;in Panipat. According to the police, she was strangled to death and then raped again after she was dead.

The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-3-year-old-raped-by-minor-in-haryana-29873">three-year-old</a>&nbsp;daughter of a labourer was abducted and allegedly raped by a 14-year-old boy, her neighbour, on Tuesday in Hisar.

A 15 year old was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-rape-and-murder-class-12th-suspect-found-dead-in-kurukshetra-29852">raped and murdered</a>&nbsp;in Kurushetra and her mutilated body was later found a 100 kms away in Jind.

And A 45-year-old labourer was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl and inserting a wooden stick inside her private parts near Pinjore.

The opposition Congress meanwhile has lashed out at the Manohar Lal Khattar government over the deteriorating law and order situation.&nbsp;

A case has been registered against two accused

Another rape was reported on Thursday from Haryana, a state that is already under the scanner. This is the sixth rape in six days. This latest rape, of a college student, was reported from Gurugram district's Farrukhnagar. #Haryana: College student allegedly raped in Gurugram district's Farrukhnagar on Monday. Case registered against 2 accused. — ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2018 × The rape occurred on Monday, with a case being registered against two accused on Thursday. Further details of the case are awaited. Meanwhile, National Commission for Women Chairperson Rekha Sharma slammed Haryana Police Thursday. She said she had asked the Haryana Police Commissioner for a detailed report on the rapes, but that she had not been satisfied with it. She then said she had been getting a number of complaints about Haryana policemen. And that they did not know "how to behave with women". The Haryana rapes have included the gang rape of an 11 year old in Panipat. According to the police, she was strangled to death and then raped again after she was dead. The three-year-old daughter of a labourer was abducted and allegedly raped by a 14-year-old boy, her neighbour, on Tuesday in Hisar. A 15 year old was raped and murdered in Kurushetra and her mutilated body was later found a 100 kms away in Jind. And A 45-year-old labourer was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl and inserting a wooden stick inside her private parts near Pinjore. The opposition Congress meanwhile has lashed out at the Manohar Lal Khattar government over the deteriorating law and order situation.

Another rape in Haryana, the sixth in six days

As many as 2,965 girls have gone missing from Maharashtra in the first six months this year, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday.

The number has gone up from 2,881 girls, who had gone missing between January 1 and June 30 in 2016, he said in a written reply in tabled in the state Legislative Assembly in response to a query by BJP MLA Randheer Savarkar.

The chief minister, who heads the home department, said, &quot;No case was registered against any particular gang in this connection. Some 12 police departments have been instructed to take immediate action against such activities.&quot;&nbsp;

According to Fadnavis, the union government formed www.trackthemissingchild.gov.in for tracking a missing girl child.

&quot;The Railways is also updating their portals www.shodh.gov.in for the same purpose. These websites have been helpful in detecting cases,&quot; he said in the reply.

The state government had undertaken four special drives, such as Operation Muskan and Operation Smile, which helped in finding 1,613 girls between January 1 and June 30, 2016. The drive also helped find 645 girls this year, Fadnavis said in the reply.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said as many as 2,965 girls went missing in the first six months of the year

As many as 2,965 girls have gone missing from Maharashtra in the first six months this year, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday. The number has gone up from 2,881 girls, who had gone missing between January 1 and June 30 in 2016, he said in a written reply in tabled in the state Legislative Assembly in response to a query by BJP MLA Randheer Savarkar. The chief minister, who heads the home department, said, "No case was registered against any particular gang in this connection. Some 12 police departments have been instructed to take immediate action against such activities." According to Fadnavis, the union government formed www.trackthemissingchild.gov.in for tracking a missing girl child. "The Railways is also updating their portals www.shodh.gov.in for the same purpose. These websites have been helpful in detecting cases," he said in the reply. The state government had undertaken four special drives, such as Operation Muskan and Operation Smile, which helped in finding 1,613 girls between January 1 and June 30, 2016. The drive also helped find 645 girls this year, Fadnavis said in the reply.

Maharashtra: Almost 3,000 girls missing in 6 months, says Fadnavis

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