With the molestation case causing uproar, Union Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily, on Friday said the Government has decided to “fast track” cases relating to women, including those involving rape, molestation and dowry.
“At the National Consultation on Judicial Reforms held recently, the Government and the Judiciary have decided to prioritise and classify cases related to women, children and the disabled...classification is an important component of the programme,” Mr. Moily told PTI.
He said classification and prioritisation would ensure that such cases are “fast tracked” in courts.
He said a “blueprint” on legal reforms approved by the Union Cabinet had mentioned classification of cases for early disposal.
“Otherwise also, cases pending for 15 years or more will be reduced to 3 years and that will be achievable from here within 3 years. All cases pending in courts after January 1, 2010 will be treated as arrears,” the Minister said adding, a policy could be announced in a fortnight.
To a question on the delay in delivery of justice in this molestation case, Mr. Moily termed it as “atrocious”.
“The girl's case is atrocious and delay is unpardonable,” he said.
Mr. Moily said the government needs to look into and “revisit” the entire provisions of law so that higher punishment is provided in cases like one which led to the suicide of the girl.
Noting that the case was “telling” upon and reflecting upon the judiciary itself, Mr. Moily said “that is why we are interested in it“.
Asked whether there was a possibility of reopening the case, Mr. Moily said the matter will be looked into and he had a discussion with the Solicitor General of India and the CBI.
“All steps will be taken to take this matter forward,” he said.
As Haryana politicians have made allegations and counter allegations on the case and promotions were given to Rathore, the Law Minister said he did not want politics to come into it and was looking at the entire matter “absolutely on merit” and also with a view to ensure rule of law in the country.
Mr. Moily said the government was setting into process a system to remove gender bias in laws of the country.
He said on atrocities on women, particularly domestic violence and rape, the government will revisit provisions of law to ensure that there are proper laws so that people will not take liberty to get into these type of offences.
