Robust mechanism to address gender-based misconduct in sports imperative: SC judge

New Delhi, July 8: It is imperative to establish a robust mechanism to address gender-based misconduct as the creation of an inclusive environment sends the message that women in sports deserve respect and protection from discrimination and harassment, Supreme Court judge Hima Kohli said.
Justice Kohli spoke at a national seminar on ‘Women Empowerment through Sports’ on Friday. She called for policy reforms to promote women’s empowerment through sports and said such policies should establish mechanisms to address gender-based violence, discrimination and harassment in the field of sports.
“While judicial pronouncements serve as guiding lights, effective policy reforms are equally essential in promoting women’s empowerment through sports,” she said in her inaugural speech at the event organised by the Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi.
“These policies should examine various facets, including ensuring equal opportunities, providing financial backup and establishing mechanisms for reporting and redressing any gender-based violence, discrimination and harassment in the field of sports,” Justice Kohli added.
“Establishing a robust mechanism for reporting and time-bound redressal of instances of such misconduct is imperative. This includes setting up helplines, establishing independent statutory committees to investigate complaints and imposing strict penalties on offenders.
“Creating a safe and inclusive environment will send a powerful message to the entire society that women in sports deserve respect, dignity and protection from all forms of discrimination and harassment,” she said.
The top court judge said regressive mindset and cultural norms limiting the aspirations of women must be challenged, and added that it is critical to develop robust systems that support women athletes, ensure equal pay and provide them with opportunities to pursue their careers without financial constraints.
She emphasized that sports can be a means of economic empowerment for women as it opens avenues for endorsements and professional contracts, and stories of successful women in sports teach other girls the importance of teamwork, self-reliance, resilience and confidence.
Justice Kohli also batted for promoting equal economic opportunities as well as equal participation of women and bias-free representation in the media. (PTI)