Kashmir is primarily known for its picturesque natural beauty and distinguished values. The ethos, culture, hospitality and humane aspects of our society have not been prevailed over by the long years of instability and uncertainty. However, with passing years, the crime rate is mushrooming in the valley, resulting in societal adulteration. Unfortunately, the rape cases are increasing at an alarming rate in Kashmir, and if not given the urgent advertence, the crime rate could snowball in near future. In the year 2021 only, a large number of rape cases were registered. Not only that, one oft times come across the horrendous news of rape and sexual violence. As a value based society, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, seeing the deterioration of the values and norms. We need to raise our voices against it collectively, or ipso facto, it will lead to an unavoidable and untreatable catastrophe. The religious and social scholars have a key role to play in this regard. The strong messages sent from the pulpits and mass campaigns have the potential of curbing this menace. All the organizations, in collaboration with each other must focus on youth guidance and moral counselling. Again the role of religious places becomes prominent due to their potential to create a morally sound society. Centers for youth guidance must be established in the pursuit of eradicating the crimes of such nature. Most importantly, the stringent punishment must be given to those who commit such heinous crimes is the need of the hour. Nonetheless, this is only possible in case of fair, timely, fast track trials. Carelessness in this regard will ultimately lead to the death of a value based society. In our capacities, we all must use platforms of all kinds to show zero tolerance towards sexual abuse and rape menace. Social media awareness, governmental regulations and iron clad implementation of sexual violence laws are some of the imperatives. Let’s join hands in bringing down the graph of this menace to zero. Let’s act before it becomes a catastrophe!
Editorial: Zero Tolerance For Rape
