'Rapists should be punished severely'

Women should raise voice against harassment, says activist

Superintendent of Police Shashikumar has said that the police in the district are committed to check atrocity on women and children.

Speaking at a workshop on ‘Prevention of sexual harassment on women’ organised by the police department and Malnad Educational Institutions, in Chikmagalur on Tuesday, he said “women are revered in the country. Women have excelled in each and every field. However, they are living with a fear in the recent days. Female children are assaulted since her birth.

There is an assault on women for every ninth minute, a woman is killed for every 16 minute, and woman is raped for every 29 minute and women die of dowry harassment for every 77 minutes,” he added.

He said about 95 per cent of the rape accused are known to the victim. Many rape cases were not reported till recently. “Every citizens of the country should discharge his responsibility effectively, to check assault on women,” he said.

Malnad Educational Institutions honorary president D L Vijaykumar said that the assault cases have made civilised society to bow its head in shame. It has spoiled the entire system. It is our duty to ensure the safety of women. The rape cases should be disposed at the earliest and accused should be punished severely, to check the cases,” he added.

Kasturi Ba Sadana Secretary Mohini Sidde Gowda said that there has been increase in assault on women. Every parent thinks twice before sending her/his daughter outside the house.

“Women should be educated and made to stand on her feet to make the society free from harassment. Women should raise their voice against harassment and assault. The police should be pro active in checking assault cases.”

Mahila Sangha President Gauramma Basave Gowda presided over the programme. Women and Child Welfare department deputy director Chandrashekaraiah, Malnad degree college principal Vishnuvardhan and others were present.