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Holi crimes: The impact of a public festivity on violence against women

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  • Poblete-Cazenave, Rubén
  • V., Claudia Martínez

Abstract

Many women experience physical or sexual violence, often in public spaces. We study the role of gender norms in perpetuating this violence by analyzing Holi, a festivity in India, where the phrase “Bura na mano Holi Hai” (Don’t feel offended, it’s Holi) is misused to justify inappropriate behavior. We document a 170% increase in assaults against women during Holi. Analysis reveals (1) higher violence in districts where men justify violence, and (2) a male backlash effect where women oppose it. Underreporting and reduced mobility during Holi do not appear to be the main drivers. To date, nobody has been convicted.

Suggested Citation

  • Poblete-Cazenave, Rubén & V., Claudia Martínez, 2025. "Holi crimes: The impact of a public festivity on violence against women," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 177(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:deveco:v:177:y:2025:i:c:s030438782500094x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jdeveco.2025.103543
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    JEL classification:

    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • K14 - Law and Economics - - Basic Areas of Law - - - Criminal Law
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law
    • O12 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development
    • Z10 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - General

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