Adyasha Kar, BA LLB, Symbiosis Law School, Pune
ABSTRACT
Rapid digitalisation has broken several barriers present in the physical realm. As the larger part of the society has taken to virtual spaces, one can observe substantial mimicking of social patterns that were once unique to the physical realm. Gendered trolling refers to the specific targeting of women on the internet, by virtue of their gender identity, which has not only rendered online spaces unsafe but is a contributor to increasing censorship of free speech and expression. This paper proposes that the roots of gendered trolling lie in the gender differences that exist in the society, exacerbated by a weak set of laws. The paper seeks to understand gendered trolling by aligning existing theories with respect to subjugation of women with real world examples, that are specific to that of India. The attempt is to understand how inequality in the society, fuelled by the existence of specific gender roles and the prevailing rape culture, has resulted in disproportionate reproach to women, in virtual spaces. The paper undertakes an evaluation of existing literature on the subject, and additionally looks at the issue from an intersectional lens to understand the interplay of gender identity with other overlapping marginalised identities, with reference to gendered trolling. This paper also analyses available statistics, to understand the issue comprehensively. Additionally, the paper delves into the prevailing law in the country as well as in other jurisdictions, before suggesting suitable solutions.
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