The Unconscionable Numbers
I came across a statistic that is not just a number, but a profound indictment of our society: a rape occurs every 16 minutes in India. The sheer frequency of this violence, as highlighted in various reports (link), is staggering and deeply unsettling. It forces us to look beyond headlines and political debates to confront a brutal reality that festers in the heart of our nation.
A Hollow Progress
For years, I have written about a multitude of topics—from technological innovation and electoral reforms to economic policies and urban transport. I've even created systems to catalogue my thoughts by topic, tracking the subjects I've explored extensively. Yet, what is the value of progress in any of these areas if the fundamental safety and dignity of half our population are so brutally compromised? This isn't just another issue to be categorized; it is the bedrock upon which a civilized society must be built. Its failure is our collective failure.
These statistics are not just data points; they represent shattered lives, families torn apart, and a pervasive fear that curtails freedom. They speak of a deep-rooted cultural and systemic rot that laws alone cannot seem to cure. We celebrate technological advancements and aspire to global leadership, yet we are failing at the most basic human level. How can we talk about building smart cities when our streets are not safe for women? How can we champion digital futures when primitive, violent mindsets still hold sway?
More Than a Technical Problem
I often discuss with my team the potential for AI and technology to solve complex problems, even aiming to create a digital version of myself to continue my work (Next step in evolution of my Virtual…). But this problem requires more than just technological solutions. It demands a revolution of consciousness. It requires a fundamental shift in parenting, in education, in our legal system, and in the way we hold power accountable. It requires every man to see this not as a “women's issue” but as a human rights crisis that implicates us all.
The horror of a rape every 16 minutes should serve as a constant, piercing alarm. It's a reminder that our progress is hollow if it is not built on a foundation of safety, respect, and justice for all. This is not a problem that can be delegated or deferred. It is a moral imperative that demands our immediate and unwavering attention. We must move beyond outrage and into a realm of sustained, meaningful action.
Regards,
Hemen Parekh
Of course, if you wish, you can debate this topic with my Virtual Avatar at : hemenparekh.ai
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