Context
Institutional violence, often overshadowed by more visible forms of gender-based violence, is a pervasive issue affecting millions of survivors in India. While politicians and voters play a crucial role in addressing this issue, their focus has largely been on other aspects.
What is Institutional Violence?
Institutional violence is characterised by actions or policies that inflict harm on individuals or groups within an institutional setting. It can occur in various forms, including:
- Physical Violence: This includes any form of physical harm inflicted by institutional agents, such as police brutality or excessive force used in correctional facilities.
- Psychological Violence: This encompasses emotional abuse, coercion, and manipulation that can lead to long-term mental health issues for victims. For example, bullying in schools or workplace harassment can be seen as forms of institutional violence.
- Structural Violence: This refers to systemic inequalities built into the policies and practices of institutions that disadvantage certain groups, such as racial minorities or economically disadvantaged individuals.
Causes of Institutional Violence
Understanding the root causes of institutional violence is crucial for addressing it effectively. Some of the primary factors include:
- Power Dynamics: Institutions often operate on hierarchical structures where those in power may abuse their authority. This can lead to a culture of fear and oppression, where victims feel unable to speak out.
- Lack of Accountability: When institutions lack mechanisms for accountability, it creates an environment where abusive behaviors can flourish without repercussions. This is particularly evident in law enforcement and correctional facilities.
- Cultural Norms: Societal attitudes towards violence can influence how institutions operate. In cultures where violence is normalized or accepted as a means of control, institutional violence may be more prevalent.
- Policy Failures: Inadequate policies regarding the treatment of individuals within institutions can lead to systemic issues. For instance, insufficient training for staff in schools or hospitals can result in harmful practices that affect vulnerable populations.
The Reporting Process
- Institutional violence begins early in the reporting process. Survivors encounter skepticism from authorities, who often dismiss complaints as baseless.
- A 2019 report by J-PAL revealed that 39% of Indian officers hold this view.
- The combination of a flawed police system, a traumatic judicial process, and a lack of hope for justice perpetuates a vicious cycle of violence.
Challenges Faced by Survivors
- Silent Suffering: Despite half of Indian women experiencing intimate partner violence, divorce rates remain remarkably low (1%). Many survivors endure violence silently, even concealing it from close relatives. Fear, societal pressure, and a lack of confidence in the justice system contribute to this silence.
- Jurisdictional Hurdles: Survivors seeking justice encounter jurisdictional challenges. For instance, when a woman from one state reports violence in another, police often dismiss the case due to jurisdictional boundaries. Such obstacles hinder survivors’ access to justice.
The Role of Voters and Politicians
- Demanding Change: Politicians must prioritize institutional violence in their electoral agendas. Voters, too, should demand action. By advocating for systemic improvements, community involvement, and legislative reforms, we can create a more sensitive and inclusive justice system.
- Multimodal Strategies: A comprehensive approach is essential. India must preserve social justice values and guarantee survivors receive necessary care. Multimodal strategies should address intersections between gender-based violence, poverty, and institutional strengthening. Legal frameworks in both public and private sectors must align with international human rights standards, ensuring efficient, victim-centered processes.
Conclusion
Institutional violence remains a hidden crisis, affecting countless lives. By acknowledging its existence, demanding change, and implementing holistic solutions, we can create a safer, more just society for survivors.
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Examine the concept of institutional violence and discuss its impact on marginalized communities in India. Suggest measures to address and mitigate institutional violence within various sectors of Indian society.