The Telangana High Court has set aside a trial court order permitting a potency test of an accused in a sexual offence case, holding that medical and scientific tests of an accused cannot be ordered routinely or merely because the allegation is grave, and must meet the tests of relevance, necessity and proportionality.
The Madras High Court observed that false cases under the POCSO Act not only harm the accused but also divert valuable judicial time and investigative resources away from genuine child sexual abuse victims, thereby undermining the purpose and effectiveness of the protective legislation.
In a rare move under Article 142, the Supreme Court set aside a man’s POCSO conviction, noting the relationship was driven by “love, not lust.” The court observed the couple is now married with a child and living a peaceful life.
A PIL in the Delhi High Court seeks to include transgender women under rape laws, challenging Section 63 BNS and Section 18 of the Transgender Rights Act. Senior Advocate N Hariharan has been appointed as Amicus Curiae to assist the Court.
The Supreme Court warned States and UTs of ex-parte action and fines for delaying replies in a PIL on rising crimes against women. Justice Nagarathna stressed preventive steps like moral education over harsher punishments.
The Supreme Court has ruled that in cases under Section 376 IPC, a rape victim’s credible and trustworthy testimony will prevail over the absence or insufficiency of medical evidence, provided her story is found to be creditworthy.
Today, On 23rd May, Using its special powers under Article 142, the Supreme Court acquitted a man earlier convicted under the POCSO Act for having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl, citing the need to deliver complete justice.
The Supreme Court has given the Centre six weeks to respond to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) asking for chemical castration of rapists. The Court also allowed the petitioner to share the plea with women lawyers for their suggestions. This move is part of efforts to improve women’s safety and justice for sexual offences. The petitioner can consult experts to strengthen the case.
A Supreme Court petition has been filed seeking preliminary inquiries in cases of dowry harassment and sexual offences, while advocating for a Uniform Civil Code. The petition highlights concerns over the misuse of women’s rights, calls for legal consolidation to enhance efficiency, and requests virtual hearings for individuals outside court jurisdictions.
The Delhi High Court, under Justice Vikas Mahajan, ruled that video recording of all proceedings, including bail hearings, is mandatory under the SC/ST Act, without exceptions for sexual crimes. The court emphasized that these recordings must be used only for court purposes, ensuring the privacy and protection of victims’ identities.
