Corrective Rape: A remorseless means of conformity

Corrective rape is a coercive practice based on the mistaken assumption that it can “cure” someone’s sexual orientation. The term initially referred to the act of forceful intercourse with non-consenting homosexual females. However, with rising dogmatism and hostility against queer individuals, it now broadly refers to the act of sexual violence executed against any member of the LGBTQIA+ community, with an intention of fixing their alleged hitch.  This article explores the grim reality of corrective rape as an emerging bane of the contemporary times and studies its profound impact on victims. It seeks to expose the stark circumstances faced by non-cisgender identities, who condone a life of misery, agony and dejection, often succumbing to this vicious web of duplicity and approval. Despite its severity, this issue can be addressed by adopting a systematic approach that includes an open mindset, inclusivity and meaningful contributions to initiatives that champion the cause of justice and human dignity.

The advent of gender acceptance and awareness in recent years has significantly broadened societal horizons, allowing for greater understanding and respect for diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. However, despite these progressive strides, deeply entrenched prejudices and harmful practices persist, with corrective rape standing as one of the most brutal and dehumanizing forms of violence against individuals who challenge traditional gender norms. Corrective rape, which initially described the act of heterosexual men ravishing lesbians with the intent to “correct” or “cure” their homosexuality has now evolved to encompass the rape of any individual who does not conform to conventional gender norms of heterosexuality, where the perpetrator’s motive is to “correct” the person’s identity.

The term was first coined in South Africa in the early 2000s when charity workers observed an increase in such attacks. It is now understood that the term has evolved to encompass the rape of any individual who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer,  intersex or asexual etc. (LGBTQIA+), with the intent of forcing them to conform to heterosexual norms. This form of hate crime has been on the rise in South African communities, particularly in townships, as well as in neighboring African countries. This increase is driven by rigid gender roles and the societal norms and cultural expectations that enforce them. It is estimated that at least 500 lesbians are victims of corrective rape each year in South Africa, but widespread societal homophobia prevents many from reporting these crimes.

In July 2007, lesbian activist Sizakele Sigasa and her girlfriend were sexually assaulted, tortured, and murdered in Soweto. The following year, Eudy Simelane, a soccer player and one of the first South African public figures to openly identify as a lesbian, was kidnapped, gang-raped, and killed near Johannesburg. Across many African communities, there has been a disturbing increase in violence against the LGBTQIA+ community, with the abuse of homosexuals being tragically normalized as a misguided attempt to correct their sexual orientation.

Corrective rape is even more terrifying in the Indian context. According to statistics from the Crisis Intervention Team of the LGBT Collective in Telangana, there have been fifteen reported instances of corrective rape in the last five years.  In many cases, the perpetrators are family members, who discourage victims from seeking legal recourse. Shockingly, this violence often occurs within the family where parents are complicit, and the rapist is typically a relative selected by them. Leading it to become a form of “disciplinary action,” aimed at eradicating the individual’s sexual identity. In India, incidents of corrective rape have been reported particularly in areas with limited LGBTQ+ visibility and heightened societal pressure for conformity. While data on such cases is often underreported, LGBTQ+ organizations are actively documenting these incidents for legal action.

Corrective rape inflicts profound psychological, physical, and emotional distress, causing lasting harm to survivors. Many endure severe trauma, depression, and PTSD, with some even succumbing to the violence or taking their own lives. A study (LGBT South Africa Foundation)revealed that over 40% of corrective rape survivors attempt suicide as a result of the enduring trauma they face.

Corrective rape remains a critical and pervasive issue, but there are impactful ways to confront and mitigate this atrocity. One key approach is to support LGBTQIA+ organizations that offer refuge and comprehensive legal assistance to survivors. Furthermore, advocating for the enactment and enforcement of robust laws that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from hate crimes is essential in fostering a safer and more equitable society. Raising awareness about the gravity of this issue through self-education and community outreach is crucial to dismantling the stigma that perpetuates it. Additionally, contributing to initiatives that champion the rights and protection of LGBTQIA+ communities can provide much-needed resources and strengthen the collective fight for justice and human dignity.

Arsalaan Beg is pursuing Law from Jamia Millia Islamia

Edited by- Nausheen Ali Nizami