Archive · 12 Dec 2025
Tharoor Warns of Xenophobia, Criticizes Marital Rape Laws
Shashi Tharoor, a senior Congress leader, spoke at an event about two important topics.
First, he warned Indian students going to the US that there is growing hatred and fear of foreigners, not just in the West but around the world.
He advised them to study abroad, gain knowledge, and then return to help India.
Second, he talked about marital rape, saying he is shocked that India is one of the few democracies that does not have strong laws against it.
He believes husbands should be held accountable if they force themselves on their wives, and that such laws are necessary to protect women.
He also mentioned that many crimes against women in India are committed by their own husbands or family members.
Shashi Tharoor warned of rising xenophobia and hatred towards Indian immigrants worldwide, advising students to study abroad and return to India.
He expressed shock that India lacks strong laws against marital rape, despite having strict anti-rape laws in general.
Tharoor argued that the conjugal relationship should not exempt husbands from being prosecuted for rape.
He criticized the lack of action from women ministers in addressing marital rape legislation.
According to NCRB data, over 31% of crimes against women in India are committed by husbands or relatives.
- Who
- Shashi Tharoor, Indian Congress leader and former diplomat
- What
- Advice to Indian students and views on marital rape laws
- When
- Thursday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Event organized by Prabha Khaitan Foundation and FICCI Ladies Organisation
- Why
- To address rising xenophobia and discuss marital rape legislation
- Speaker
- Shashi Tharoor
- Event Organizers
- Prabha Khaitan Foundation and FICCI Ladies Organisation
- Main Topics
- Xenophobia, Marital Rape
- Tharoor's Advice
- Gain knowledge abroad and return to India
- India's Stance on Marital Rape
- No specific law, exempts husbands under 18
- Crimes Against Women
- 31% by husbands or relatives (NCRB 2023)
Sources
‘Resentment has become much more visible..’ Shahi Tharoor’s advice to Indian students in US
India one of few democracies overlooking marital rape: Shashi Tharoor
India One Of Few Democracies Overlooking Marital Rape: Shashi Tharoor
Why Is Marital Rape Still Not a Crime in India? Tharoor Calls Exception a 'Travesty'