Punishment for rape not to depend on status: HC | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Punishment for rape not to depend on status: HC

None | ByPress Trust of India, Jodhpur
Mar 31, 2006 09:37 AM IST

While deciding a criminal appeal under provisions of the CrPC, Justice RP Vyas of the High Court denied reduction in sentence of a lower court.

The punishment for rape must depend on the conduct of accused, the state and age of victim and the gravity of the criminal act, and not on the social status of the offender, the Rajasthan High Court has ruled.

HT Image
HT Image

While deciding a criminal appeal under provisions of the CrPC, Justice RP Vyas of the High Court denied reduction in sentence of a lower court.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Vyas observed that the measure of punishment for rape could not depend upon the social status of the victim or the accused.

"It must depend upon the conduct of the accused, the state and age of the sexually assaulted female and the gravity of the criminal act," the court said.

An appeal had been filed before the High Court by accused Mahaveer and Balveer, who were involved in the gangrape of a 25-year-old married woman.

The accused had challenged the judgment of Additional Session Judge, Nohar (Hanumangarh district), on the basis that they were prestigious people and their children were about to get married.

The accused said that they were the sole earning members of their families, besides contending that the victim had lodged an FIR two days later.

The lower court had sentenced them to ten years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 each.

"Crimes of violence upon women need to be severely dealt with. The socio-economic status, religion, race, caste or creeds of the accused or the victim are irrelevant considerations in sentencing policy," the High Court held.

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Mukhtar Ansari Death News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Friday, March 29, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On