Bombay HC acquits rape accused in POCSO case, says girl would be ‘terrified’, not ‘act normal’
Mumbai: The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has sparked controversy with its recent verdict, acquitting a 64-year-old man accused of raping an eight-year-old girl. The court cited that the victim's behavior was not consistent with that of a rape survivor, stating that a minor girl subjected to sexual assault would normally be "terrified" and not "act normal and play."
The case dates back to March 2019, when the accused, Vijay Javanjal, allegedly lured the victim with sweets and touched her inappropriately. The victim's mother complained to the police after her daughter reported the incident, stating that Javanjal was sitting next to her daughter while she was playing.
However, the court questioned the authenticity of the victim's testimony, noting that she continued to play after the alleged assault and only reported it to her mother after returning from school. Justice Govinda Sanap stated that if the accused had committed the act, it would have caused fear, pain, and shock to the girl, prompting her to run away and claim shock to her mother.
The court's decision has raised concerns about its understanding of trauma and victim behavior. Critics argue that the verdict perpetuates harmful stereotypes about how victims should react to sexual assault, ignoring the complexities of trauma and individual responses.
Javanjal was initially sentenced to 20 years rigorous imprisonment under the POCSO Act and Section 376AB of the Indian Penal Code by the trial court. The High Court's acquittal has sparked outrage, with many calling for a review of the verdict.
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Arrive 3 hours early: Airlines urge passengers as centre tightens airport security after Pak attack
New Delhi: Airlines have asked passengers to reach airports at least three hours before departure after the Centre increased security measures in response to Pakistan’s ongoing attack, reported India Today.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, all passengers will now face a Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC) before boarding. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed all airports and airlines to step up security.
Air India said, “Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours prior to departure. Check-in closes 75 minutes before departure.” Akasa Air and IndiGo issued similar advisories, asking passengers to allow more time for security checks.
All passengers must carry valid photo ID and will undergo secondary checks before boarding. Visitor entry to terminals has been banned, and Air Marshals will be deployed as required.
The moves come as India’s defence systems shot down Pakistani missiles and drones in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. At least 21 airports are shut till May 10, and several flights are cancelled. Civilian aircraft are avoiding airspace over Pakistan and India’s western corridor, data from Flightradar24 shows.
