Capture dead or alive : against child marriage - Page 2

Originally posted by: stutishah

The tyranny of KHAP panchyats, especially in Hindi heartland, is so scary, it makes one wonder whether the state or law of land could actually provide effective protection to the oppressed? The system is de facto parallel power, sustained with staunch support of political powers they beget to successful elections, ironically controlling the very machinery of constitutional govt.(but for some judiciary). But how effective or protective even judiciary can function if the executives of their orders- state or it's force (police)- would tacitly stonewall its just orders? The KHAP's very structure-rigid, orthodox, controlled by sami literate or cunning interested ones, entrenched in maintaining vested interests of patriarchal advantages- sustains ominous ill practices like, bal vivah, gotra tyranny, honour dictates, Nath pratha, social boycotts or even such blatant crimes as abductions or honour killing. And invariably, at receiving end of this medieval patriarchal oppressive system, suffers down and subjugated women. The education-and specially education in girls- alone can build any bulwark or resistance to this bleak picture, as showed here with very real example of Santara. It kindles some hope. And that's why, of all bravadoes and heroics of Anandi re Scripted deliverance of victims in Bal vivah, widow remarriage, Nath pratha, Dhongi Gurus, Dayans etc. I respect her most for her untried efforts for education in girls or illiterate elders.

Originally posted by: parri814

Hi Stuti,

Its always a pleasure reading your posts on here.

You very aptly described and summed up Khap Panchyats. It is pure and simple tyranny that is practiced to uphold patriarchal 'advantages' for the select few. I mentioned this on another forum, when asked about the impact of Satyamev Jayate on me, and I reiterate, I feel very blessed to be born and living in a more progressive and liberating society when I see the atrocities meted out against a person just for being a female. Regardless of whether she is a mother, sister, wife, daughter, etc etc. compassion, love, respect and honor is foreign to these poor woman because of this evil system.

And yes the irony is that the very laws of the land that these Khaps shun, they actually control via their unholy alliances with politicians and protectors of the law.

I whole heartedly agree, Awareness and education will slowly whittle away at this parasite.