BS EDIT: Military needs urgent gender sensitisation

By Business StandardPublished On Sep 13, 2024

Gender sensitisation

Accusations of harassment at an Indian Air Force base highlight the critical need for gender-sensitisation in the armed forces

Organisational deficiencies

The victim had to seek police intervention after her complaints were ignored, reflecting the systemic issues in handling such cases

Lack of action

A delayed investigation and inconclusive findings show a failure to address sexual harassment seriously in male-dominated environments

More women in forces

With over 9,000 women in India’s defence forces, the need for gender-neutral policies and safe workplaces is pressing

Cultural resistance

Despite rising numbers, the ingrained culture in military and paramilitary organisations poses a significant barrier to real change

The way forward

India must introduce intensive gender-sensitisation programmes and follow global best practices to ensure a safe environment for women