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A chilling report detailing widespread sexual abuse and harassment on university campuses in Kerala has been tragically ignored by the government, highlighting a systemic failure to protect students and address a deeply concerning issue. The report, compiled by the Committee on Gender Justice, was submitted nine years ago, yet its damning findings remain largely unaddressed, leaving victims vulnerable and perpetuating a culture of silence. The report documented disturbing cases of quid-pro-quo harassment, where students were subjected to abuse in exchange for academic favors or career advancement. It also revealed a horrifying pattern of post-complaint trauma, where students who dared to speak out faced isolation, stigma, and lack of support, often leading to suicidal thoughts and actions. The report further noted that the prevalence of harassment by research supervisors and guides created a climate of fear and intimidation, forcing students into submission or abandoning their studies altogether.
The government's inaction in the face of these serious allegations is a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of students. The fact that university officials, including vice-chancellors, dismissed the report's findings as unsubstantiated demonstrates a deeply entrenched culture of denial and apathy towards gender-based violence. It is disheartening that even when presented with evidence of systematic abuse, the authorities prioritized protecting the reputation of institutions over safeguarding the lives of students. The report's findings raise critical questions about the effectiveness of existing policies and procedures aimed at preventing and responding to sexual harassment on campuses. The lack of accountability for perpetrators and the absence of support for victims have created a toxic environment where abuse thrives and justice remains elusive.
The Kerala government's failure to act on this report is not an isolated incident, but rather a reflection of a broader societal issue. The reluctance to acknowledge and address sexual violence on university campuses is a pervasive problem across the globe. This culture of silence and denial allows perpetrators to escape accountability and perpetuates a cycle of abuse. It is imperative that governments and educational institutions take a proactive stance in addressing gender-based violence. This includes implementing robust policies and procedures for reporting and investigating such incidents, ensuring the safety and support of victims, and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The Kerala government must take immediate steps to investigate the allegations in the Committee on Gender Justice report and implement necessary measures to create a safe and equitable learning environment for all students.