Diminishing Digital Space: The Gender Gap Online For Women In India

Abstract

The digital landscape in India reflects offline inequalities, perpetuating a significant gender gap online, particularly for women. Despite technological advancements, socio-cultural norms, economic disparities, and cyber violence hinder their digital inclusion. Women face barriers such as online harassment and biases, impeding their full participation in the digital realm. Cyber violence against women is widespread, exploiting ICT tools to target them, even extending to high-profile figures like activists and journalists. The trend shrinks the online space for women, fostering insecurity and deterring engagement. Efforts like legal frameworks aim to bridge the gap, challenges persist. Empowering women through digital literacy and promoting online safety are crucial for enhancing their participation and creating a safer online environment. The study examines the multifaceted aspects of the gender gap in online access among Indian women, analyzing factors like socio-cultural norms and cyber violence to inform strategies for bridging the digital gender divide.