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.

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.

Source – The Hindu