Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre on PIL for Women, Children, and Transgender Safety
The Supreme Court, on Monday (16 December 2024), issued a notice to the Centre on a PIL which sought enhanced safety measures for women, children, and transgender individuals. The plea included a nationwide ban on online pornography, social behavior norms for public transport, and more severe punishments for rape convicts, such as castration.
Court acknowledges concerns but rejects extreme punishments
A bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan appreciated parts of the petition focusing on the issues of the vulnerable group, especially women who do not have shelter. The court, however, dismissed suggestions like castration as "barbaric and harsh." The court emphasized that concrete solutions are required, particularly to improve the behavior of public transport and ensure a safer environment.
Advocate Highlights Hidden Issues
Senior Advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani, who represented the Supreme Court Lawyers Association, highlighted unreported cases of sexual violence in smaller towns and criticized the media for not reporting such cases. She referred to the Kolkata RG Kar Medical College incident, where a trainee doctor's rape and murder were followed by over 95 alleged unreported cases of sexual violence.
Focus on Public Transport Awareness
It highlighted that encouraging proper social behavior in public transport, which includes buses, metros, and trains, is necessary. Justice Surya Kant emphasized the need for awareness campaigns and strict implementation of guidelines to prevent incidents of harassment. He said that even airlines have reported inappropriate incidents.
Marking Nirbhaya Anniversary
The court recognized the importance of the plea being heard on the anniversary of the 2012 Nirbhaya case, which brought to the forefront the gaps in safety and enforcement. The court further directed that notices be issued through the Attorney General's office to concerned ministries and departments for further deliberation.
