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Book Review: The Justice by Nikhil Khasnabish

Nikhil Khasnabish’s latest book – The Justice – is a poignant and fast-paced novel that delves into the devastating impact of sexual violence and the journey of a survivor seeking justice and healing by turning recluses to the society. The novel is short in page length; however, its storyline is extensive delivering a powerful message.


The story centers on the central character “Ime Borah” – a young woman whose life is irrevocably altered when she is brutally raped a few days before her wedding. The assault shatters her world, nudging her to break off her engagement and withdraw from the society…where she was vibrant a few days ago in the pursuing of her marriage. The novel explores her emotional struggle, the societal reactions she faces, and the efforts of a local vigilante group, "Save Women Society," to bring her perpetrators to justice. The narrative tackles crucial questions: were the rapists caught and punished? Is a rape victim unfit for marriage? And ultimately, does Ime truly find justice?

The book is poignant in capturing two inverse aspects with the same grip – trauma and recovery. The novel intimately portrays the emotional and psychological trauma experienced by a rape survivor, including feelings of being stained or unworthy. However it also highlights the long and arduous path to recovery.

Also, a significant theme is the societal judgment and victim-blaming that often accompanies sexual assault. The character Ime's decision to break off her wedding due to her perception of herself as ‘stained’ underscores this pervasive issue. The novel suggests that justice isn't solely about the legal punishment of perpetrators, but also about the victim being seen, heard, and believed, and finding a way to reclaim their life.

Despite the heavy subject matter, ‘The Justice’ aims to convey a message of optimism and inspire confidence in survivors, encouraging a more humane outlook towards them.

The story is heart-touching and hauntingly powerful…effectively conveying the emotional turmoil of the protagonist. The book's central message about empathy for rape victims and the broader definition of justice is widely praised as vital and necessary.

‘The Justice’ by Nikhil Khasnabish is a compact yet impactful novel that tackles a sensitive and crucial subject: sexual assault and its aftermath. While its brevity means it's a quick read, it aims to leave a lasting impression with its emotional depth and a powerful message of hope, resilience, and the broader meaning of justice. It's recommended for readers who appreciate short, impactful stories that shed light on social issues and offer a glimmer of optimism amidst tragedy.

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