SC pulls up Allahabad High Court over controversial remarks in rape cases

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has taken strong exception to the Allahabad High Court’s remarks in a recent rape case, cautioning the court against making controversial statements in judicial orders. This is the second time in 20 days that the apex court has issued such a directive to the high court.

The latest development came after the Allahabad High Court, while granting bail to an accused in a rape case, observed that the victim “herself suffered trouble for which she herself was responsible.” The Supreme Court, which is hearing the matter suo motu, expressed concern over such language being used in sensitive cases.

The top court is also hearing another case involving a March 19 order by the same high court, where it controversially stated that “pulling the breaking pajamas string cannot be considered as an attempt to rape.”

A bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih remarked, “If someone wants to grant bail, it is fine, but why make such a comment which says that the victim herself invited trouble? This side (bench) should also be very careful.”

The apex court’s observations underscore the importance of judicial sensitivity in handling cases related to sexual offences.