Violence against Indian women is widespread and has deep roots. Here are some of the reasons behind the issue:

Studies show women are more likely to report sex crimes if female police officers are available.

India has historically had a much lower percentage of female police officers than other Asian countries. In New Delhi, just 7 percent of police officers are women, and they are frequently given inconsequential posts that do not involve patrol duty. Of the 161 district police stations in Delhi, only one has a female station house officer.