Brother-in-law sentenced to life imprisonment for repeatedly raping sister-in-law in Bareilly

In a shocking case of familial betrayal from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, a man has been given life imprisonment for repeatedly raping his sister-in-law for over eight months. The court also imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on the accused.

The Incident and Court's Remark

The victim, in her statement to the court, revealed that her husband often traveled to Haldwani for work, and during his absences, her brother-in-law exploited her vulnerability. Initially dismissing his advances as playful jokes, she later succumbed to his manipulations. Despite the trauma, she did not immediately report the abuse, and when she did attempt to file a report, her case was dismissed by the police. This was after the case had been registered following intervention by the SSP, and the accused was convicted.

A Heart-Wrenching Account of Betrayal

The court was visibly moved by the woman's testimony. The tragic irony that a woman should feel unsafe in her own home is enough to shake anyone's conscience. She told the court how, after the first assault, the family intervened but no legal action was taken, which emboldened the accused to repeat the crime. Her account of how she had endured such abuse emotionally and physically before finding justice for herself is very insightful.

The Court's Verdict

The court observed in the judgment that it is a sad fact that women, who are told to stay safe at home, are still being exploited. The judge's observation on the advice given by the victim's mother highlights the irony of the situation—"Where are our daughters safe?

This case highlights the issue of domestic abuse and the need for stronger protections and support systems for women, especially within their own homes. The court’s decision to impose a life sentence serves as a reminder of the severity of such crimes and the importance of justice.