The recent rape case in Kolkata has sent shockwaves throughout the country. However, as horrifying as this incident is, it is part of a much larger, ongoing issue that has plagued India for years. The harsh reality is that women in India are constantly living in fear, knowing that their safety is never guaranteed. It often seems that those who have never experienced unwanted advances, harassment, or violence are the fortunate few. Yet, when such heinous acts are brought to light, the collective outrage and support often fade far too quickly. How long will people remember or support the recent case? The initial response is always intense, but as time passes, people return to their daily routines, and only the victim's family is left to grapple with the trauma and injustice for the rest of their lives.

The problem is not just the violence itself but the societal response—or lack thereof. Many in India, especially the younger generation, are quick to voice their outrage against injustices occurring in other parts of the world, such as in the United States or Palestine. This global awareness is commendable, and it's not wrong to speak out against international crimes. However, there is a glaring inconsistency when these same individuals remain silent in the face of similar or even more severe crimes happening within their own country. Half of the population seems to turn a blind eye, often due to political affiliations or ideological biases, and then they are quick to criticize the government and politicians for protecting criminals. But how can we expect the government to take meaningful action if we, as a society, fail to raise our voices in unison when such atrocities occur?

This silence is not just hypocritical; it is dangerous. The collective apathy towards domestic issues undermines the very fabric of our society. While it’s easier to voice concerns about global issues—sometimes due to the distance and lack of personal involvement—addressing problems at home requires more courage and commitment. It demands that we hold ourselves and our leaders accountable. Yet, many shy away from this responsibility, choosing instead to focus on external matters that feel less immediate. But this selective activism only perpetuates the cycle of violence and injustice that we so desperately need to break.

Moreover, there is an irony in how some people in India react to the issue of women's safety. Men often become defensive when women express their fears, responding with the phrase, "not all men are the same." While it is true that not all men are perpetrators, this defensive stance misses the point entirely. Women are not speaking out to attack all men, but to highlight the pervasive culture of fear and vulnerability that they experience on a daily basis. Expecting women to acknowledge exceptions, like saying, "All men are bad except my neighbor Sahil who once helped me with my scooter stand," is not only absurd but also dismissive of the real issues at hand. It reduces a serious conversation about safety and respect to trivial anecdotes that do nothing to address the root of the problem.

The truth is, if we want to see positive change in India, we must be that change. This means more than just speaking out against global injustices; it requires us to confront the issues in our own country with the same, if not greater, urgency. Silence and inaction will only allow the cycle of violence and injustice to continue. It’s not enough to simply express outrage when a case like the one in Kolkata makes headlines. We need sustained, collective action that holds perpetrators accountable, supports victims, and pushes for systemic changes to ensure that no woman has to live in fear.

The unity shown by the Indian doctors in this recent case is a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. If it weren’t for their determination, this case might have been quietly brushed under the rug, like so many others before it. But this unity must extend beyond the medical fraternity to include all of society. We cannot afford to let our voices fall silent after the initial wave of outrage subsides. Real change will only come when we, as a nation, refuse to accept anything less.

In conclusion, the fight against gender-based violence in India is far from over, and it requires the active participation of every citizen. If we want to create a safer, more just society, we must start by acknowledging the problem within our own borders and committing ourselves to being part of the solution. It's time to stop the silence and start demanding real, lasting change.

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