Combating Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence: Empowering Women for a Safer Digital Future : Daily News Analysis

Date : 21/07/2023

Relevance –

  • GS Paper 1 – Society
  • GS Paper 2 – Social Justice
  • GS paper 3 – Technological Developments and its Consequences

Keywords – Social Media, Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), IT Act, 2000

Context –

In recent times, research has brought to light the alarming prevalence of technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV), with a disproportionately high impact on young women.

The Reality –

TFSV encompasses various malicious acts, such as morphed images, sexualized blackmailing, digital flashing, rape threats, and explicit comments and messages. Social media and messaging platforms, particularly Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, have become hotspots for these offenses, significantly affecting college students across India. A private survey conducted among 400 students from 111 Indian higher education institutions revealed that an astonishing 60% of women experienced some form of TFSV, compared to a mere 8% of men.

Consequences of TFSV:

The consequences of TFSV are profound, with abusive content linked to an individual's name and online profile, persisting indefinitely on the internet. Survivors often bear the weight of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. In addition to psychological repercussions, survivors may face tangible setbacks, including diminished academic or career prospects, social isolation, and, in extreme cases, violence or ostracization by their own families. Meanwhile, perpetrators often exploit anonymity, making it arduous to hold them accountable for their actions.

Challenges and Concerns:

Despite the existence of India's IT Act of 2000, which criminalizes some forms of TFSV, ambiguities within the law deter survivors from reporting incidents. Technology giants, such as Meta, have been criticized for their lack of motivation to enhance safety features beyond the bare minimum, leaving users exposed to abuse. Moreover, poorly designed artificial intelligence systems perpetuate discrimination and harassment online. Institutions of higher education are crucial intervention points, but the implementation of guidelines and the formation of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) often fall short, leading to significant underreporting and low awareness.

Summary of Provisions and Objectives of the Information Technology Act 2000 [IT Act 2000]

The Information Technology Act 2000 aims to provide legal recognition and support for various electronic transactions, fostering the growth of e-commerce and secure information systems in India. Its key provisions and objectives can be summarized as follows:

  1. Legal Recognition for Electronic Transactions: The IT Act 2000 grants legal recognition to transactions conducted through electronic data interchange or electronic commerce, replacing traditional paper-based methods of communication.
  2. Authentication through Digital Signatures: The Act bestows legal recognition on digital signatures, enabling their use for authenticating information or matters that require authentication under any law.
  3. Electronic Filing and Storage: The Act facilitates the electronic filing of government documents with respective departments and allows electronic storage of data.
  4. Electronic Funds Transfer: The Act provides legal sanction for the electronic transfer of funds to and between financial institutions and banks, promoting efficient electronic banking practices.
  5. Digital Books of Accounts: It grants legal recognition for maintaining books of accounts in an electronic format, providing convenience and flexibility for bankers.
  6. Promoting E-Commerce and Secure Information Systems: The IT Act 2000 aims to promote legal infrastructure for e-commerce and secure information systems, boosting digital growth.
  7. Amendments to Existing Laws: The Act amends relevant laws like the Indian Penal Code, Bankers Book Evidence Act, 1891, and RBI Act, 1934 to align them with technological advancements.
  8. Addressing Cyber Crimes: The Act enforces laws to manage and reduce cyber-crimes at both national and international levels. It governs all internet activities in India, and non-compliance may lead to penalties and prosecution.

The Information Technology Act 2000 plays a crucial role in facilitating and regulating electronic transactions and internet activities in India, fostering a secure and legally recognized digital environment.

Suggestions for Mitigation:

Effectively combating TFSV requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing various strategies. Firstly, there is a pressing need to strengthen government regulations concerning technology platforms and hold social media companies accountable through the upcoming Digital India Act. Additionally, further research is imperative to understand the impact of TFSV on individuals from marginalized backgrounds, taking into account factors like caste, religion, sexual orientation, class, and region. Within educational institutions, the establishment of anonymous helplines, the provision of mental health services, and regular workshops on safety and awareness are essential to empower students. Encouraging open discussions about TFSV, while ensuring that survivors are not blamed or shamed, is also critical to fostering a culture of support and understanding.

Government Initiatives:

India has taken some steps to address TFSV, with provisions in the IT Act specifically targeting cybercrime against women. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules of 2021 aim to regulate digital media and curb abuse. Additionally, the "Digital Literacy and Online Safety Programme" seeks to empower women in universities across various states, providing them with the knowledge and skills to safely navigate the internet, raise awareness about cybercrimes, and access available resources for prevention and support.

Conclusion:

The issue of technology-facilitated sexual violence demands immediate attention and comprehensive action to ensure the safety and empowerment of women in the digital sphere. Collaboration between the government, technology companies, educational institutions, and society at large is crucial to implement robust regulations, enhance safety features, and create widespread awareness and support mechanisms for survivors. By doing so, we can equip women with the ability to navigate the online world securely, promoting their agency, mobility, and overall economic development. A deeper understanding of the nature and impact of TFSV will aid in formulating appropriate measures, including penalties and rehabilitation programs, to hold perpetrators accountable and foster a safer and more inclusive digital space for all. Together, we can work towards a future where technology serves as a force for good, free from the scourge of sexual violence.

Probable Questions for UPSC Mains Exam –

  1. Discuss the provisions and objectives of the Information Technology Act 2000 (IT Act 2000) and how they contribute to fostering a secure and legally recognized digital environment in India. Examine the challenges and concerns related to combating technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) and suggest strategies to empower women for a safer digital future. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
  2. Technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) has emerged as a significant issue, disproportionately impacting young women in India, especially on social media platforms. Analyze the consequences of TFSV and the challenges in addressing this problem. Examine the role of government initiatives, such as the Information Technology Act 2000 and the Digital Literacy and Online Safety Programme, in combating TFSV and suggest additional measures to create a safer digital space for women. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Source – The Hindu