Understanding Harassment at Workplace through the Traditional Theory of Violence: A Case-based Approach

Violence against women is partly a result of gender relations that assumes men to be superior to women (IHRO, 2009). The Indian society still upholds the traditional patriarchal culture of male members as the superior gender and the bread winner of the family whereas the women are relegated to the background as primary care givers of the household and subservient to the men. Given the subordinate status of women, gender violence is considered normal and enjoys social sanction. Women in public services are more prone to workplace violence due to the nature of their jobs which involves interaction with the public and colleagues. The research paper tends to bring out this aspect with the aid of case studies on the subject. Similar case studies are chosen from the police services and are a classical paradigm to illustrate violence against women sanctioned by the patriarchal tradition prevalent in the society. For the purpose of this research gender violence is defined as: ‘any act involving use of force or coercion with intent of perpetuating promoting hierarchical gender relations ’(APWLD, 1990). The outcome of the study proves the traditional theory of violence where women are subjected to harassment by the dominant male sanctioned by culture and social norms. Also the non-adherence and inadequacies of existing legislation towards violence against women is highlighted in the study.