The brutal murder of 25-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav by her father in Gurgaon reflects a society that continues to be tethered to patriarchal norms, despite its economic development and exposure to the world. The murder reeks of a dangerous intersection of masculinity, control and perceived dishonour.
This case is not an isolated anomaly; it echoes numerous “honour” killings and violent acts committed in the name of family pride, cultural conformity, or perceived disobedience.
The veneer of development often masks the reality that patriarchal values are still deeply embedded in personal and social relationships. It is high time that the government begins a campaign to educate prospective husbands and fathers about the rights of women in schools and colleges.
