If I forgive you, would you abuse?

What the Indian Express opinion argues on forgiveness and abuse

The Indian Express opinion raises a moral and social question: if a victim forgives, does it end harm or does it enable further abuse? It supports the idea that forgiveness can be compatible with accountability, but it criticises any approach where forgiveness is treated as a condition for the victim to cooperate, or as a way to neutralise consequences for wrongdoing.

Key ethical concerns: accountability, boundaries, and victim dignity

The opinion focuses on three connected ethics ideas. First, accountability for abuse should continue even when forgiveness is offered. Second, boundaries matter because forgiveness can fail to protect victims when risk of repeat harm remains. Third, victim dignity matters because social pressure can turn reconciliation into a way of managing the victim’s experience rather than protecting the victim’s safety.

Power imbalance and the risk of exploitation