Author: Geeta Pandey and Cherylann Mollan

Marital rape remains a contentious issue in India, where the government has opposed criminalizing it, citing concerns that it would be “excessively harsh.” The Supreme Court is hearing petitions to amend a British-era law that currently exempts men from being prosecuted for rape within marriage. This law, dating back to 1860, is seen as outdated by campaigners who argue that forced sex is rape, regardless of the relationship between the individuals involved. Despite more than 100 countries having outlawed marital rape, India, along with countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia, still holds onto this archaic law. Advocates for change…