To answer first part of your question read https://medium.com/lessons-from-history/what-makes-india-the-patriarchal-society-it-is-f2008ce7195

Now you can understand that when women try to defend themselves in such a society, they will not be supported. Males who abuse are mostly not alone. Even if they are, women as weaker physically risk themselves by carrying pepper spray or sharp objects. They are caught unawares and the men exploiting them are better prepared. It feels foolish to shove yourself out there after having known what could happen. We have lots of examples to learn from