Govt to Fast-track Cases of Women Exploitation, Rape, Molestation

Union Law Minister M Veerappa Moily has said that the government has taken a decision to fast track cases pertaining to women including those involving rape, molestation and dowry.

“At the National Consultation on Judicial Reforms held recently, the Government and the Judiciary have decided to prioritise and classify cases related to women, children and the disabled. Classification is an important component of the programme,” Moily said.

The minister said that classification and prioritization of cases would make sure that these are fast tracked in courts.

He said that the Union Cabinet has approved a blueprint on legal reforms which mentions classification of cases for early disposal.

“Otherwise also, cases pending for 15 years or more will be reduced to 3 years and that will be achievable from here within 3 years. All cases pending in courts after January 1, 2010 will be treated as arrears,” the minister said adding, a policy could be announced in a fortnight.

In response to a query regarding delay in delivery of justice in the Ruchika molestation case, Moily described it as ‘atrocious’.

“Ruchika’s case is atrocious and delay is unpardonable,” he said.

Responding another question about the possibility of reopening of Ruchika case, he said, “I don’t know whether there is a possibility.”

Moily said that he had discussed the case with the CBI and the Solicitor General, adding all serious steps possible will be done.

On stripping Rathore of President’s Police Medal awarded to him, Moily was non-committal. “I am not in a position to comment on it,” he said.