A huge win for #MeToo movement: Harvey Weinstein verdict could change the way US legal system views assault

The conviction of former movie Mogul Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault and rape in a New York court on Monday is a win for the #MeToo movement that encourages women to expose men who abused their positions of power for sexual gratification. The verdict is expected to change the way the US legal system views sexual assault, historically considered difficult to prove. It does not have the same direct effect on other legal systems.
Nevertheless, it will have demonstrative value across the world, and embolden women victims to arraign sexual predators even after long delays. Retrospective justice for past misconduct will be helpful to prevent future harassment. Countries such as India need a functional judicial system to bring abusers to justice.

Reportedly, after the #MeToo movement made it to India, organisations have started taking complaints of sexual harassment seriously. This is welcome. The law dealing with sexual harassment at the workplace must be enforced effectively. Organisations should create work environments that are safe for women.

Patriarchy shows up in sexual assault, underscoring the need to address societal and cultural values that promote misogyny. However, the law and the judicial process must be fair and ensure that those making false allegations are not spared either.