Kolkata Crime: The case of the rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata is a topic of national discussion. The entire country has been shaken by this shocking incident. The Supreme Court has also taken notice of the matter and issued important directions on Tuesday. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court D. Y. Chandrachud has addressed the issue. On August 9, a woman doctor was raped and brutally murdered at Kar College. In this case, as well as in any other case of torture, the Supreme Court has emphasized that the identity of the rape victim must not be disclosed.
What has the Supreme Court said?
The photo of the doctor who was raped and killed at Kar College and Hospital is being shared on social media. The Supreme Court has raised objections to this. It is deeply troubling that many users are sharing the girl’s photo along with her name on social media. Within 48 hours of the incident, the photo of this lady doctor went viral. The Supreme Court has expressed its displeasure over this. A case has been filed against Sandeep Ghosh, the former principal of Kar Health College, for revealing the identity of the victim woman doctor. The 31-year-old trainee doctor was raped and murdered on the night of the 9th. BJP MLA Locket Chatterjee has also alleged that two women doctors have spread rumors related to this case.
What is the punishment for revealing the identity of a rape victim?
- Disclosing the identity, photo, or name of a rape victim is a crime under the law.
- It is an offense under the provisions of the Indian Code of Justice 2023.
- Under Section 72 of the Indian Code of Justice, if the identity of the rape victim is disclosed in any way, including printing her name or making her photo viral, there is a provision for imprisonment for a minimum of two years.
Why is the identity of the rape victim not disclosed?
The Supreme Court has stated that revealing the identity of a rape victim is a crime for several reasons. The primary concern is the safety of the victim. Additionally, a rape victim is already mentally traumatized. Disclosing her identity can lead to further stigma and infamy. Society may view her differently, adding to her distress. The victim’s identity is kept confidential to avoid causing her additional emotional stress. The Mint has reported on this issue.
