On International Women’s Day, as we honour the strength and resilience of women, we must also confront a stark reality—the persistent scourge of gender-based sexual violence. Despite legal safeguards and widespread awareness efforts, countless survivors continue to battle for justice, rehabilitation, and dignity.
At The Interview World, we believe in amplifying voices that drive real change. In this exclusive conversation, Yogita Bhayana, Founder of PARI Foundation, sheds light on the urgent need for systemic reforms, grassroots interventions, and survivor-centric support. From spearheading India’s first National Convention on the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children to pioneering rehabilitation programs, PARI Foundation remains at the forefront of advocacy and action.
Bhayana underscores how her foundation provides a vital support system for survivors of sexual violence, ensuring they receive justice and rehabilitation. She also stresses the responsibility of corporations, educational institutions, and public sector organizations to uphold the POSH Act, implement proper training, and foster safer environments for women. Beyond institutions, she calls on society, lawmakers, and the media to unite in a relentless fight against sexual violence.
This conversation delves into the critical role of collective action in shaping a future where justice is not just an ideal but a certainty. Here are the key takeaways from her powerful insights.
Q: PARI Foundation has been a strong advocate for survivors. What key support systems do survivors need most in their journey for justice?
A: As the founder of PARI Foundation, I am deeply troubled by the persistent scourge of sexual violence in our society. Every woman in India deserves safety and justice—fundamental rights that demand relentless action. We must not waver in our commitment to making them a reality.
On December 16, 2024, PARI spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative by hosting India’s First National Convention on the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children. This landmark event introduced “Agaaz”, a pioneering program that shifts the focus from rhetoric to tangible solutions. The convention fostered critical dialogue, bringing together government officials, policymakers, legal experts, civil society leaders, educators, and survivors. Through collective action, we are forging a path toward a safer and more just society.
Q: What proactive steps should corporations, educational institutions, and public sector bodies take beyond compliance with the POSH Act to create truly safe environments?
A: Educational institutions must take the lead in fostering gender sensitivity and awareness. Schools and colleges should conduct regular, mandatory workshops and seminars for students and educators, integrating interactive discussions and real-life case studies. Parental engagement is equally crucial—institutions must involve parents in awareness programs to reinforce gender equality at home.
To create a safe and inclusive learning environment, all school and college staff must undergo annual POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) training to ensure strict compliance with the law. Additionally, POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act) training must be compulsory for all teachers and administrators, equipping them to identify, prevent, and address incidents effectively. Institutions must enforce these measures with unwavering commitment, transforming education into a powerful force for social change.
Q: Sexual harassment often stems from deeply ingrained societal norms. How can we drive behavioural change and shift mindsets at a grassroots level?
A: To combat violent behaviour, we must first understand its root causes and the media’s role in shaping perceptions. Criminal psychology offers critical insights into the mindset of rapists, but only through rigorous research can we decode their motivations, triggers, and psychological patterns. In-depth studies must go beyond surface analysis, identifying behavioural trends that drive such crimes. These findings should inform targeted interventions, shaping effective prevention strategies and policy reforms. By merging psychological expertise with data-driven insights, we can dismantle the factors that fuel violence and create a safer society.
Q: Do you think comprehensive rehabilitation programs and Rape Crisis Centres can empower survivors by providing medical, legal, financial, and vocational support for recovery?
A: Survivors of sexual violence need comprehensive rehabilitation that addresses their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Society must move beyond victim-blaming and foster a culture of empathy and support. Shifting public attitudes is crucial to ensuring survivors regain dignity and confidence.
Every city, town, and village must have Rape Crisis Centres (RCCs) offering immediate medical care, legal assistance, and financial aid. These centres should serve as safe havens, providing survivors with essential resources and guidance. Beyond crisis response, rehabilitation programs must prioritize long-term empowerment. Vocational training and educational support should equip survivors with skills and opportunities to rebuild their lives independently. By integrating these initiatives, we can create a system that not only aids recovery but also restores agency and hope.
Q: Sexual harassment affects women differently based on caste, class, and profession. How should policies and interventions be tailored to address these diverse challenges?
A: Law enforcement must eliminate systemic lapses and uphold accountability in handling sexual violence cases. Establishing dedicated emergency helplines staffed by trained professionals ensures victims receive immediate, sensitive, and effective assistance.
First responders and officers must follow strict protocols for evidence collection, handling, and storage, including post-mortem and forensic procedures. Any deviation compromises justice. Special Investigation Units (SIUs) should operate in every jurisdiction, integrating forensic experts, counsellors, and legal advisors to navigate the complexities of sexual violence cases with precision and empathy.
Moreover, mandatory gender sensitization training must be embedded into police training programs, not just at induction but as an annual requirement. A well-trained, responsive police force is also fundamental to delivering justice and restoring public trust in law enforcement.
Q: Could you elaborate on how mandatory POSH training, audits, and protections can enhance workplace safety for women workers?
A: We must mandate comprehensive POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) training across all workplaces to instil awareness and accountability. Subsequently, we should conduct annual audits of Internal Committees (ICs) to verify compliance with the POSH Act and measure the effectiveness of anti-harassment policies.
Extending robust protections to women labourers and construction workers, ensuring safe working conditions, access to healthcare, and providing swift legal recourse in cases of harassment or violence can establish safe shelter homes for homeless women and children in both urban and rural areas, offering security and support.
We must guarantee that workplaces provide safe, affordable childcare facilities and creches, enabling working mothers to balance their professional and parental responsibilities without compromise.
Q: With increasing digital interactions, cyber harassment has become a major concern. How can we build stronger mechanisms to tackle online sexual harassment and ensure safer digital spaces?
A: We must enforce a nationwide ban on pornography to curb its documented link to rising sexual violence against women. Research reveals that a significant share of such crimes involve perpetrators influenced by explicit content.
Furthermore, implementing strict regulations on OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms to prevent the portrayal of sexual violence can hold media accountable for shaping narratives that challenge harmful stereotypes and dismantle regressive norms that fuel gender-based violence.
Finally, mobilize the nation to demand swift and uncompromising justice for rape victims. Collective action must drive systemic change, ensuring a safer society for all.
