Gang Rapes and Molestation Cases in India: Creating Mores for Eve-Teasing by Ambika Kohli

This article highlights the patriarchal nature of the Indian state and discusses this in relation to the state’s response to several rape and molestation cases. It emphasises a number of responses made by political, community and well-known fundamentalist leaders, which have focussed on controlling women’s sexuality and mobility. Such statements are framed within patriarchal notions of female morality, honour and shame through which mores are created for eve-teasing (sexual harassment). The article also discusses public remarks highlighted within the media in relation to the internationally reported Delhi gang rape case, which focussed on the movements and morality of the victim. I argue that such patriarchal responses support a rape culture in India, which has led to increased violence against women and breaches of Indian women’s human rights.