The Fear that Stalks: Gender-Based Violence in Public Spaces

The volume examines the causes and consequences of gender-based violence in public spaces. Scholars from different disciplines and activists from the women’s movement explore the nature of gender-based violence in public spaces locating it within the politics and dynamics of public space. Tracing the common strands between different forms of violence like sexual harassment and assault, acid throwing, honour killing, rape and homicide, the essays examine the legal remedies available to prevent gender-related violence and discuss to what extent these remedies are adequate. The costs of gender-based violence especially in terms of economic losses to society are also examined. With case studies, they view the plight of homeless women and eunuchs in society and the role of media in addressing gender-based violence in public spaces.