Author(s): Meenu

Abstract: Sexual assault within marriage epitomizes the perpetuation of male dominance, serving as a means of asserting control rather than solely an act of sexual aggression. Unfortunately, due to entrenched cultural, religious, and political factors, marital rape remains legally permissible in numerous nations, including India, where widespread discourse on criminalizing such acts is conspicuously absent. This analysis aims to dissect the barriers hindering the acknowledgment of marital rape and the persistent absence of justice for its victims. Despite numerous recommendations from committees and reports, societal reluctance to confront the truth and legislative inertia in amending laws perpetuate a climate where impunity for spousal sexual violence prevails. The struggle for women in Indian society is protracted, as evidenced by the acceptance of marital rape without consequence. This paper will examine the historical evolution of legislation from the colonial era to contemporary times, with particular attention to laws addressing domestic violence, rape, and dowry prohibition. Through this exploration, the paper seeks to understand the factors deterring victims of marital rape from coming forward and advocating for the criminalization of sexual violence perpetrated by spouses.

Keywords: Patriarchy, Crime, Marital Rape, Social Stigma, Sexual Abuse.

DOI: Availabe on author(s) request

Download Full Article: A Study of Marital Rape as a Crime against Women

Pages:30-33