India’s sexual violence will cost ruling party support

Subject

Sexial violence in India.

Significance

At a recent parliamentary debate over a no-confidence motion against the government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) began its defence by focusing on its achievements in protecting women. India has seen a recent surge in reports of high-profile, violent sexual crimes. Modi will be seeking a second term in the general election due in early 2019.

Impacts

• Modi will face protests over India’s treatment of women especially during his trips to Western countries.
• Civil society organisations will intensify calls for better training and scrutiny of police.
• Human rights groups will urge India to reject the death penalty, encouraging judicial reform instead.