An Analytical Study of Rape in Delhi

Rape is among the highest forms of crime experienced by women in all sectors of the society. In recent years, there has been an alarming rise in ratio of rape in India.. Delhi bagged the dubious record of being the only union territory where such crimes were reported. Rape is a serious crime and increasingly gaining visibility as a major public health concern. The present study aimed to find out the demographic profile of rape victims and the impact of rape. A total of 100 rape victims from shelter homes and different areas of Delhi were taken as the sample of the study. An informal interview was conducted to obtain, an overall pictures of victim’s traumatic experience. A case study approach was followed in assessing for victims trauma caused by rape and other insults. Information was derived from the victims verbal and behavioral communications. Details pertaining to age, religion, literacy, Socio-economic status, marital status, site of incidence, number of assailants, and relationship with assailants were noted down. It was found that most of the victims were illiterate or poorly educated, unmarried and belonged to the lower social segments of the society. Highly affected age group was 11-15 yrs. In majority of the cases victim knew the assailant. A large number of invalid consensual rape cases has been noted down. The residence of the victim was the most commonly noted location of sexual assault. Victims also reported that they face social stigma, disgrace and suffer serious guilt-pangs if they register for protest. It’s very difficult to ask for help because the rape has made them feel ashamed, weak, and wounded.