Breaking Down Biases and Building a Brighter Future
By Lokanath Mishra
The preference for male children is a deeply ingrained bias in many societies. This bias leads to emotional distress, discrimination, and health risks for women and girls. Jhumpa’s story highlights the devastating impact of this bias.
Jhumpa’s grandmother treated her mother poorly because she didn’t produce male offspring. This kind of pressure is not unique to Jhumpa’s family; many women face similar expectations. Jhumpa’s cousin was pressured to have a son, despite health complications. This shows the sacrifices women are expected to make.
Jhumpa’s observation about the silence surrounding these toxic behaviors is powerful. She notes that “they were silent. She was silent. The only sound that echoed there was the breaking of our hearts.” This highlights the need to speak out against such biases. By sharing her story, Jhumpa hopes to inspire others to find the courage to break the cycle of toxicity and bias.
This requires a collective effort to challenge societal norms and promote a more inclusive and equitable environment. We must recognize that these biases are not harmless and can have long-lasting effects on individuals and communities. By working together, we can create a society that values and respects the worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their gender.
Jhumpa’s career as a sub-inspector of police was marked by significant operations and high-profile cases. One notable incident that showcased her bravery and expertise was when she foiled a robbery attempt at Indira Gandhi park in Bhubaneswar during the Durga Puja festival. With her training in Krav Maga, Jhumpa chased the robbers, grabbed one of them, and pinned him down, removing the gun from his possession. She also grabbed the second one through the help of public subsequently.
Jhumpa’s actions are an inspiration to law enforcement agencies and citizens alike. Her bravery and expertise demonstrate the importance of training and preparedness in law enforcement. Jhumpa’s parents were proud of her, and her grandmother confessed that girls could be better than boys.
Breaking Down Biases and Building a Brighter Future
Jhumpa’s achievements serve as a reminder that women can excel in any field, including law enforcement. Her legacy inspires others to pursue careers in law enforcement and other male-dominated fields. By promoting equality and challenging societal norms, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Let’s work together to break the cycle of toxicity and bias. Let’s promote a culture of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, where every person can thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice. Only by speaking out against these biases and working together can we create a brighter future for generations to come. A future where every child is valued and loved, regardless of their gender. A future where women and girls can live without being discriminated against or marginalized. Let’s make this vision a reality, one step at a time.