Hemanth, the accused in the Raptadu school attack, was shot by the police after allegedly trying to escape during the reconstruction of the crime scene. Police reportedly fired six rounds, leaving him seriously injured. He was later shifted to hospital.
The incident raises an important question. Are we doing enough to stop men who think they have the right to harass, threaten or attack girls?
Whether Hemanth’s actions were premeditated or the result of an impulsive decision, the damage caused to the young girl cannot be ignored. Imagine the fear she went through and the trauma her family has to live with.
We keep talking about counselling and mental health support. Yes, these are necessary. But they cannot be the only answer. There must also be a strong fear of consequences.
When someone even thinks of laying a hand on a girl, he should think twice. He should know that such an act can destroy his own life. We need punishment so firm and swift that it becomes a warning to anyone who thinks he can get away with such behaviour.
People often point to countries like Saudi Arabia when discussing strict punishment. Whatever one’s opinion about their legal system, the larger point is that crimes against women and girls must never be treated lightly.
Of course, police firing must follow the law and cannot be justified without examining the circumstances. But the larger message should be clear: no one has the right to make a girl feel unsafe.
Counselling may help change a mindset. But the certainty of punishment must stop a criminal from acting on it. Girls should live without fear. Those who threaten them should fear the law.
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