Women's Rally in Madurai Calls for Stronger Laws Against Sexual Violence and Drug Abuse

Thousands of women from southern Tamil Nadu gathered in Madurai on Tuesday for a protest march organized by the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA). The demonstration demanded stricter measures to address sexual violence and drug trafficking.

The protesters marched along AA Road and DD Road, carrying banners and chanting slogans. Their demands included stronger preventive laws, faster judicial processes, legal aid for survivors, and better rehabilitation facilities. They also highlighted the need to curb the rising influence of illegal narcotics.

AIDWA central committee member S. Valentina, who led the protest, said that sexual assaults have been increasing in Tamil Nadu, including gang rapes. She alleged that existing helplines for women and children are not functioning properly, and that even female police officers in the Singapen Special Force have faced harassment.

Ms. Valentina also criticized the state government's handling of TASMAC liquor shops, questioning the closure of 717 shops and alleging that some have been reopened. She called for reducing TASMAC outlets and controlling substance abuse to prevent sexual offenses. She urged that action be taken against anyone involved in sexual crimes, regardless of political affiliation.

She expressed concern over low conviction rates, claiming that only 2% of cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act result in convictions. She alleged that some police stations conduct 'kangaroo courts' for POCSO cases and said the government has been informed.

The rally was part of AIDWA's ongoing campaign for women's safety and strict enforcement of laws against sexual violence and drugs.