I am a man from India, deeply disturbed and ashamed by the ongoing events surrounding marital rape in our country. Behind closed doors, numerous women endure domestic violence, including the horrific act of marital rape, all the while being deprived of their rights for justice. Despite our pledges to respect and protect them, we have repeatedly failed to eradicate this heinous crime from our society, which is why I urge the Supreme Court of India to make marital rape a criminal offense.
In 2017, the National Family Health Survey revealed that over 30 percent of married women in India reported experiencing physical violence since the age of 15, mainly from their current spouse. Moreover, rape by current husbands was 40 times the amount by others, spotlighting marital rape as a silent epidemic (UN Women, 2018). Unfortunately, it remains an unreported crime due to cultural beliefs, fear of reprisal, lack of legal framework, and the shame associated with it.

In the light of justice, our moral compass, and our international commitments, it's high time that marital rape is criminalized in India. As the Apex court of justice, the Supreme Court has the power and responsibility to address this pressing issue and protect the dignity, health, and safety of millions of women across our country. The cry for justice is loud, clear, and urgent.

Together, we can change the narrative. Make your voice heard, sign the petition to criminalize marital rape in India. We must protect our women, restore their dignity and provide them with the justice they deserve.