Morals, Ethics, and Blackmailing in India
-Devendra K Budakoti
India keeps witnessed a disturbing rise in cases of molestation and rape, particularly involving women and children. Alongside this, incidents of blackmail through “honey traps” set by foreign intelligence agencies come to light.
Shockingly, many sexual assault cases are committed not by strangers, but by close relatives or acquaintances—often within the victim’s own home. Most of these crimes go unreported. Families often remain silent, fearing social stigma and the potential damage to a woman’s reputation and marriage prospects. In many cases, victims are met with blame and ridicule instead of support.
India’s rigid moral framework, especially regarding sexuality, disproportionately targets women. Even when a woman is the victim, she may continue to be blackmailed by the perpetrator, who uses shame and fear to silence her. Victims suffer in silence, dreading public humiliation and lacking faith in a slow and often insensitive legal system. The trauma can linger for years, leading to mental health problems.
The prevailing sexual ethics in society make reporting such crimes extremely difficult, especially when the abuser is a trusted family member or someone who is known to the household. These relationships, combined with societal taboos, further complicate the situation and isolate the victim.
The “Honey trap” cases involve foreign agents targeting individuals in sensitive positions—such as scientists in sensitive research establishments, defense personnel, and armed forces members. These traps are effective because of the societal shame associated with sexual behavior. Even when individuals become aware of the risks, they may still fall prey to blackmail due to fear of public exposure and its social and legal consequences. While premarital and extramarital relationships exist in society, they remain socially unacceptable, especially for women, making them more vulnerable to coercion and blackmail.
Historically, honey trapping was a common espionage tactic during the world wars. However, in many Western societies today, changing attitudes toward sexuality and more progressive social norms have made such tactics ineffective. Rape cases are more likely to be reported, and women are better protected by responsive legal systems and greater public awareness.
India, however, still needs to maintain its deeply held beliefs around morality, ethics, and sexual behavior. However, strict moral codes should not become barriers to justice or tools of control. Instead, society must evolve to support victims, not stigmatize them.
Young people, especially girls, must be made aware of how abusers—including known individuals—can use shame and manipulation as tools of control. In cases of child sexual abuse, both boys and girls must be taught the difference between “Good Touch” and “Bad Touch.” Visual materials and workshops in schools can play a critical role in helping children recognize abuse and speak up early.
Parents and teachers are key players in this education process. They must be sensitized to the realities of abuse and blackmail and be trained to offer support without judgment. Creating safe, open environments where children feel empowered to speak is crucial to preventing long-term trauma.
To truly address these issues, we must look beyond preserving moral appearances to protecting individuals—especially women and children—from exploitation and abuse. Conversations about consent, respect, and boundaries must become a regular part of education and parenting. Only then can we create a society where justice prevails over shame, and victims are supported rather than silenced.
The writer is a sociologist and has worked in the development sector for more than 40 years.
