BREAKING THE SLIENCE UNDERSTANDING AND ADDRESSING MARITAL RAPE

AUTHOR – MAHIMA SINGH, STUDENT OF INTEGRAL UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW

BEST CITATION – MAHIMA SINGH, BREAKING THE SLIENCE UNDERSTANDING AND ADDRESSING MARITAL RAPE, ILE LEX SPECULUM (ILE LS), 1 (1) OF 2023, PG. 329-332, APIS – 3920 – 0036 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2.

ABSTRACT

Marital rape is a distressing form of sexual violence that occurs when one spouse forces non-consensual sexual acts upon the other within a marital relationship. Historically, societal norms and legal systems overlooked this issue, assuming that marriage implied ongoing consent to sexual activity. However, as we now recognize individual autonomy and the right to bodily integrity, attitudes and legal frameworks have evolved significantly.

In many countries, marital rape is now regarded as a serious offense and has been criminalized. This reflects a fundamental understanding that consent is crucial in all sexual encounters, including within marriage. Legal changes have eliminated marital exemptions and provided clear definitions of consent as being voluntary, informed, and enthusiastic. These developments aim to protect individuals from sexual violence and emphasize the importance of consent, irrespective of marital status.

Despite progress, challenges persist. Cultural, social, and religious beliefs, along with limited access to justice, can impede the effective implementation and enforcement of laws against marital rape in certain regions. To address and prevent marital rape, it is crucial to promote awareness, provide consent education, and establish support services for survivors.

Continued efforts to combat marital rape involve fostering a culture of respect, equality, and consent within intimate relationships. By acknowledging the severity of marital rape, raising awareness, and advocating for survivor support and justice, we can contribute to creating a safer and more equitable environment for all individuals.

KEYWORDS – Sexual intercourse, marital status, relationship, justice, awareness, society, criminalisation.