Silent sufferers and resilient voices: Women’s agency in the 2020 Delhi communal riots

Abstract

The 2020 Delhi Communal Riots, marked by widespread violence and destruction, disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, with women bearing the brunt of both physical and psychological traumas. This paper examines the dual roles of women as silent sufferers and resilient voices in the aftermath of the riots. While women were victims of sexual violence, displacement, and loss, they simultaneously exhibited significant agency, taking part in activism, rebuilding efforts, and amplifying the stories of those most affected. Through interviews, media analysis, and community narratives, this study highlights how women navigated the complexities of their suffering while actively challenging dominant power structures. It underscores the transformative role of women in reshaping narratives of resistance and resilience, particularly in politically volatile environments. By recognizing the intersectionality of gender, religion, and class, this paper contributes to a broader understanding of women's agency in conflict zones, emphasizing the need to consider their voices in post-violence reconstruction and social justice processes.