What is the issue?
Victims of rape and sexual assault are continued to be victimised by systemic insensitivity and slow pace of judicial system.
What are the problems?
- Police personnel are still not sensitised to deal with rape victims.
- It takes several days for victims to get a FIR registered.
- The trial period of the fast track courts extends far beyond the stipulated two months period as per Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
- There is delay in courts due to factors such as delay in getting medical reports, adjournments, increasing case load and vacancies at the judiciary level.
What should be done?
- Proper training and sensitisation of all the agencies involved in investigation and prosecution of rape cases.
- The need for a specialised agency such as a one-stop crisis centre to provide necessary response to help victims and guide them through the legal procedure.
- Day-to-day trial can quicken the procedure as well as ensure that the victim’s statement is recorded without missing any vital information.
- It is suggested that lawyer's questions be routed through the judges.
- This will ensure that questions are not hostile and psychologically pressuring the victim.
- Support services to ensure victims get compensation, pre-trial orientation, counselling and access to rehabilitation.
Source: The New Indian Express
