The Supreme Court of India, on Monday, agreed to review a petition calling for the establishment of comprehensive, nationwide guidelines aimed at ensuring a safer environment for women, children, and transgender persons. Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan have summoned various central ministries to respond, setting the stage for further deliberations in January.
Senior advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani, representing the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association, highlighted the urgency of the matter by citing frequent underreported incidents of sexual abuse in smaller cities. Pavani referenced the tragic event at RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata, where a trainee doctor was raped and murdered. She noted that following this incident, approximately 95 cases of sexual violence occurred but failed to gain significant attention. She advocated for severe punitive measures similar to those used in Scandinavian countries, such as chemical castration for offenders.
However, the bench expressed reservations about accepting all the requests outlined in the petition, labeling some as “barbaric” and “harsh.” Yet, it acknowledged that there were innovative aspects of the petition that merited closer examination. Justice Surya Kant specifically pointed out the need for improved behavioral standards in public transport, suggesting that more awareness and strict implementation of proper conduct are necessary. He mentioned that the do’s and don’ts should be widely publicized, especially in light of some inappropriate incidents reported even in airlines.
Pavani also reminded the court that Monday marked the anniversary of the 2012 Nirbhaya case, a brutal gang rape that shocked the nation and led to calls for stronger protections and reforms. She questioned the effectiveness of existing guidelines and stringent laws, probing whether they are genuinely being enforced.
The bench responded by emphasizing the necessity of examining the gaps in the implementation of these laws and directed that notices be issued to the relevant ministries through the office of the Attorney General. Justice Surya Kant commended the petitioners for their efforts to secure justice and safety for everyday women facing challenges in their daily lives.
