What is difference between first night in arrange marriage and rape?
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Answer:
In the Indian context, Suhag Raat is a significant ritual in the life of a newly married couple. It refers to the first night when the marriage is consummated. In this ritual, the bed of the couple is decorated with flowers, which are believed to bring sweetness to their relationship. The female members of the bridegroom’s family guide the bride to the decorated bedroom where she waits for her husband’s arrival, with a glass of milk. When the husband comes, he takes the veil off the bride’s face and initiates consummation.
However, as sweet and romantic this ritual seems to be from the above lines, it might not be the same for everyone, especially the brides. In India, the ritual of Suhag Raat is one of the laying grounds for marital rape, particularly in the case of arranged marriages. Marital rape could be defined as the act of sexual intercourse with one’s spouse without his or her consent. Marital rape is not treated as a criminal offense under the Indian Penal Code. According to global statistical report by the United Nations, only 11% of rape and sexual assault cases worldwide are ever reported. The latest report by the National Family Health Survey states, "83% of married women between the ages of 15 and 49 who have ever suffered sexual abuse cite their current husband as the perpetrator."