Rape Cases Hushed Up In India: U.S. Lawmakers Told


Chairing the Congressional hearing, Congressman James McGovern said some reports indicate that cases of rape have even increased since the December 16 gangrape in a moving bus in Delhi last year.

"Earlier, there was non-registration of cases. Now, a lot of them are coming out and speaking and registering the cases. So this is a big step for us. In fact, with the increased sensitivities in the police and the administration, it is going to increase because people who are not reporting are going to report," Kant said.

He said the government of India has taken steps to strengthen the law enforcement responses on crime against women and children by bringing in legislation for their protection.

"After the massive protest which happened after the unfortunate Delhi gangrape in December, police across the country have notified various procedures to be followed by the law enforcement in investigation, evidence collection, medical examination, and trauma support to victims," he said.

"The Criminal Amendment Act 2013 has strengthened the law on rape and has also brought in new provisions related to stalking, voyeurism, and acid attacks," he said, adding that the Indian government has ratified the UN protocol on trafficking.

The government of India has also created faster courts for trials related to sexual offences, Kant said.

Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal's alleged sexual harassment of a colleague a few days back in Goa has snowballed into a major controversy.

Also Read:
"Women Face Discrimination, Empowerment Distant Goal": PM Manmohan Singh
ISRO's Mangalyan And NASA's Maven Will Complement Each Other In Mars Findings'

Source: PTI