SC stays Allahabad HC's observations over rape, terms them insensitive
New Delhi (PTI): The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed the observations made in an order of the Allahabad High Court which said mere grabbing of the breast and pulling the string of a 'pyjama' do not amount to offence of rape.
A bench of Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih observed it was pained to say that some of the observations made in the high court order depicted total insensitiveness and an inhuman approach.
The bench issued notice to the Centre, Uttar Pradesh government and others seeking their responses in the suo motu proceedings initiated over the high court's March 17 order.
The apex court has taken cognisance on its own of the controversial order.
The high court on March 17 ruled that mere grabbing of the breast and pulling the 'pyjama' string do not amount to offence of rape but such offence falls under the ambit of assault or use of criminal force against any woman with the intent to disrobe or compel her to be naked.
The order was passed by Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra on a revision petition filed by two persons who moved the court, challenging the order of a special judge of Kasganj by which the court had summoned them under section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code apart from other sections.
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Kamakhya Express derails near Choudwar in Odisha; Rescue operations underway
Cuttack: The Bengaluru-Kamakhya Superfast Express derailed near Choudwar in Odisha on Sunday at 11:54 AM. Reports indicate that 11 coaches of the train went off the tracks near Nergundi Station in the Cuttack-Nergundi Railway Section of the Khurda Road Division.
Initial reports suggested casualties, but railway authorities later confirmed that no injuries or fatalities had been reported. Officials, including the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Khurda Road and the General Manager of East Coast Railway, have reached the site. Accident Relief and Medical Relief Trains have also been dispatched for assistance.
Passengers faced difficulties due to the ongoing heatwave, with many in urgent need of water. The derailment caused several coaches, from B-6 to B-14, to fall off the track into nearby fields and forested areas. Some passengers reportedly jumped off the train in panic.
The Railways has announced the diversion of trains 12822 (BRAG), 12875 (BBS), and 22606 (RTN) due to the derailment. Steps are being taken to facilitate the travel of stranded passengers.
Helpline Numbers:
- Bhubaneswar: 8455885999
- Cuttack: 8991124238
Further updates are awaited.
