Dear YB Komala Krishnamoorthy,

I am greatly disturbed after reading the media reports that crimes against Indian women are on the increase. I also feel that it is too simplistic to blame parents' irresponsibility for the increase of crime against young women. Rather, there is a deeper underlying problem that results in violence against women. The inequality of power between men and women within the Indian community precipitates serious social repercussions.

Furthermore, Indian women are not well represented politically and their voices are effectively drowned by loud male voices clamoring for political clout.

Traditionally, Indian women are relegated to a lower status within the family structure. Opportunities that should ideally made available to both boys and girls, are reserved only for the male progeny. Indians girls are generally made to feel insignificant because major decisions about their lives are made by older male relatives.

Having no option but to accept the deal meted out by fate, they develop a serious inferiority complex. This makes them vulnerable to all kinds of abuse and violence. We should really analyse the circumstances that victimise these young women and endeavour to help them grow into human beings with unlimited potential.

I appeal to you to initiate programmes and training that will help young Indian women develop the skills that are necessary for surviving in an increasingly unsafe world. There also must be serious effort made towards having a greater political representation of Indian women in the MIC as well as in the government.

There are many capable and highly committed Indian women in this country like you who are capable of bring about changes that will help Indian women achieve real social advancement.