The Hathras Gang Rape
Will MHA articulate the horror that befell the 20-year old Dalit girl from Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, who was raped by several men, had her spine broken and her tongue slashed and was left to die, but lived on for more than a fortnight, only to lose the struggle in a Delhi hospital? Or the mindset of the Uttar Pradesh police and administration, who forcibly cremated the woman’s body in the dead of night?
There is no fear of law in the minds of rapists. Due to extremely slow moving wheels of investigation and justice delivery system. Criminals know that nothing will happen to them and they will live a comfortable life in jail for more than 10 years at taxpayer’s cost.
Even after the lower court holds them guilty they will appeal to High Court so another 5 to 10 years for court to decide their fate. If High Court confirms death by hanging, they will appeal to Supreme Court. It may take Supreme Court several years either to confirm death by hanging or convert the sentence to Life imprisonment.
Life imprisonment means punishing taxpayers. If the Supreme Court confirms Death by hanging, they will file Review petition. As many years have already passed since the heinous crime was committed the self appointed Human Rights Activists will oppose death sentence forgetting about human Rights of victim.
Government needs to amend Rape Laws so that fear is created. To begin with following may be considered:
1. Police should complete investigation in 10 days for Rape cases. Police officers should be punished if they neglect their duty.
2. Lower Court should pass an order of death by Hanging in 15 days. Court should rely on Forensic evidence as witnesses may not come forward.
3. Only an Appeal to be allowed in High Court.
4. High Court to pass order in 15 days.
5. If high Court confirms the order of death by hanging the criminals should be hanged within 7 days of order.
6. This system will create fear in the minds of prospective criminals.
The above suggestions may appear to be very harsh but are needed to be implemented for Safety of Girl Child & Women. more