Socio-Economic Inequality and The Persistence of Gender- Based Violence in India

Abstract—India’s demographic landscape and socio-
economic dynamics have shifted dramatically over the

last few decades. However, despite this economic

progress, deep- rooted societal issues, including gender-
based violence and child exploitation, continue to plague

the country. The disparity in urban and rural areas and
the unequal distribution of resources contribute
significantly to these issues. A substantial portion of the
Indian population still lives in poverty, which makes it
even more vulnerable to various forms of abuse. India’s
legal and constitutional commitment to upholding the
rights of women and children is often contradicted by
systemic failures and cultural norms that undermine
these rights.
The public outcry following high-profile cases like the
2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and the Kolkata doctor’s
rape-murder is an indication of growing dissatisfaction
with the justice system. These cases showcase the
alarming extent to which women and children continue
to be subjected to violence despite the existence of legal
protections. In the case of the Kolkata doctor, the tragic
nature of the crime points to significant gaps in hospital
safety protocols, inadequate law enforcement, and
societal failure to address gender violence seriously.
What has followed is a series of public protests, court
orders, and policy initiatives. However, these responses,
though critical, often fail to produce long-lasting and
meaningful reforms.