Full Breakdown
Justice Denied: The Plight of Rape Survivors in Israel and Manipur
1/19/2026, 6:29:48 AM
Survivors Speak Out in Israel
On October 7, 2023, Shaylee Atary, a survivor of a violent rape in 2011, testified before the Knesset Committee for the Advancement of the Status of Women, advocating for reforms in how authorities handle sexual assault complaints. Atary recounted her traumatic experience, detailing how she was raped in a Tel Aviv garage and later faced significant barriers in seeking justice due to a court-imposed gag order on her alleged assailant. She criticized the justice system for prioritizing the rights of perpetrators over victims, stating, “The justice system hands out gag orders to rapists like candy.” Atary's testimony highlighted the emotional and psychological toll of her experience, including a diagnosis of PTSD and years of trauma.
Another survivor, Michal Gadisman, also testified, alleging sexual assault by former minister Silvan Shalom. She urged lawmakers to prevent Shalom's appointment to a prominent position, emphasizing the need for accountability in cases involving powerful individuals. Gadisman expressed her frustration with the legal system, claiming that her case was dismissed due to a lack of public interest, further illustrating the challenges faced by survivors in Israel.
The Tragic Case of Mary Haokip in Manipur
In a parallel narrative, the case of Mary Haokip, a young Kuki-Zo woman from Manipur, underscores the dire consequences of systemic failures in addressing sexual violence. After being gang-raped in May 2023 during ethnic violence, Haokip succumbed to her injuries on January 10, 2026, after nearly three years of medical treatment. Her ordeal began when she was abducted while attempting to withdraw money from an ATM, leading to severe physical and psychological trauma.
Community organizations and leaders expressed profound sorrow over her death, which they view as a reflection of institutional apathy and neglect. Ng. Lun Kipgen, spokesperson for the Committee on Tribal Unity, stated that Haokip's story symbolizes the countless victims silenced by conflict and systemic failures. Despite an FIR being registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, no perpetrators have been brought to justice nearly three years later.
Criticism of Institutional Responses
Both Atary and Haokip's cases reveal significant shortcomings in the justice systems of Israel and India. Atary criticized the Israeli police for their dismissive attitude towards her case, while community leaders in Manipur condemned the lack of action from both Central and State Governments regarding Haokip's assault. Nengboi Hmar, president of the Kuki Women’s Union, articulated the frustration felt by many, stating, “Justice delayed in this case is not just justice denied, it is humanity denied.”
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the testimonies, Knesset members acknowledged the need for legislative reforms to better protect survivors of sexual violence. Meanwhile, community leaders in Manipur called for urgent action to ensure safety and justice for victims, emphasizing that the current state of affairs reflects a grave failure of governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The justice system hands out gag orders to rapists like candy,” — Shaylee Atary, Rape Survivor
- “He should be behind bars.” — Michal Gadisman, Rape Survivor
- “She died waiting—for justice, for dignity, for acknowledgment,” Kipgen said.” — Ng. Lun Kipgen, CoTU Spokesperson
- “Justice delayed in this case is not just justice denied, it is humanity denied.” — Nengboi Hmar, KWU President
The narratives of Shaylee Atary and Mary Haokip serve as poignant reminders of the urgent need for systemic change to protect and empower survivors of sexual violence in both Israel and India.
