In Memory of Jyoti Singh

A land where gods and goddesses are said to have walked? 

It’s time to wake up and pull up these stubborn roots. 

Incredible India claims to be transforming fast... 

yet has it become a molesting monster? 

Was there ever a time when girls and women could be safe

on the streets, in villages, cities, taxis, buses, trains alone? 

Maaji said, “Stay away from prying, lustful men’s eyes,


they are like predators searching to attack pretty looking prey.”

She is psychologically, physically and verbally abused if her 

dowry isn’t up to standard or she doesn’t give birth to a son. 

Accepted by a culture and proud of female infanticide, 

honour killings, burned alive by the women themselves. 

“Oh dear, there’s been another accidental death,” they said. 

“Only a woman,” the police are unable to help or investigate. 

Ruined, raped, silenced and forced to accept it’s her mistake, 

leading to shame, dishonour and eventually suicide. 

A cry for help ignored by a corrupt justice system,

a system that will only be overcome by making a stand.

Footnote

On 16 December 2012 in South Delhi, Jyoti Singh was beaten and gang raped in a private bus. She died from her injuries thirteen days later while undergoing emergency treatment in Singapore. The incident generated widespread national and international coverage and was widely condemned, both in India and abroad.

Kuli Kohli