CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A major controversy has erupted after a minister strongly criticized the recent Allahabad High Court ruling in a case where the judge stated that the incident in question did “not amount to rape.” The minister termed the verdict a “wrong judgment,” expressing deep concern over the message it sends regarding justice for survivors.
The ruling, delivered by a single-judge bench, has sparked outrage from legal experts, women’s rights groups, and public figures who argue that such interpretations can weaken the fight against sexual violence in India. The minister emphasized that judicial accountability must be paired with gender sensitivity, especially in cases involving sexual assault.
While the High Court’s order cited legal technicalities and consent issues in its interpretation, critics have pointed out that judgments must also consider the power dynamics, victim impact, and the broader spirit of the law.
The minister called for a review of the decision and stressed the need for higher courts or judicial panels to re-examine the matter. The statement also reignites discussions about the need for ongoing judicial training on gender-based crimes, ensuring empathy and legal consistency in verdicts.
Women’s rights organizations across India have issued statements demanding transparency in how such cases are handled and have urged both legal reforms and institutional sensitivity.
As public anger grows, legal observers are watching to see whether this judgment will be challenged in the Supreme Court or if a larger bench will intervene.
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