Islamabad, Dec 26 (IANS): The Indian government should do "something serious and long lasting to bring about an atmosphere that is conducive for women to live in peace and security in India", said a Pakistani daily following the rape of a young woman in a moving bus in New Delhi.

An editorial in the Daily Times Wednesday said that women have shed their restraint and are now more vocal about their rights, especially when it comes to self-esteem and the right to live with dignity.

"The gang rape of a 23-year-old student in New Delhi, that too in a moving bus, has ignited anger of unprecedented proportions in a society where people seldom talk about rape, leave alone protest against the crime," said the daily.

The victim is still struggling for her life.

The editorial said: "Rapists generally go scot-free primarily because of the reluctance of the victim to come forward, as well as the attitudes permeating the law enforcement agencies and society at large."

"...The mistreatment and abuse of women is a particular problem in Delhi and northern India," it added.

The daily noted that a "stiflingly patriarchal social mindset, a brazen culture of male power, a general disdain for law, a largely insensitive police force and a rising population of rootless, lawless migrants are only some of the reasons" for crime.

It went on to say that "unless you are rich, you are more than likely to face humiliation and indignity in India".

"Rape incidents are blamed on pornography, the increasing influence of western culture, women wearing western dresses and going out with male friends. This line of contention is no more acceptable to the people and they want the culture of rape eradicated, which has become an instrument of social and sexual intimidation used against women," it added.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had to appear on national TV to request the protestors to stay calm.

"However, the general resentment does not seem to be poised to disappear any time soon unless the Indian government really does something serious and long lasting to bring about an atmosphere that is conducive for women to live in peace and security in India," the daily added.