Expressing concern over delay in delivering justice in the molestation case, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member Brinda Karat on Tuesday said the legal system had “infirmities” and it should be reformed so that timely justice can be given to those seeking it.
Speaking during Zero Hour in the Upper House, Ms. Karat said that former DGP of Haryana S P S Rathore, who allegedly molested a 14-year-old budding tennis player in 1990 and has now been handed out only six months of rigorous imprisonment after being found guilty of the charge, continued to be rewarded with promotions, even as the girl suffered.
“Our judicial system has infirmities... The culprit was rewarded with promotions even as the girl's brother was beaten up and false cases were registered against him. It was the courage of the girl’s friend and her parents who took the case forward and refused to cow down under pressure,” Ms. Karat said.
The CPI(M) leader appealed to the Law Minister and Home Minister (both of whom were present in the House), “to reform the judicial system to give fast track justice to those who suffer. I also request the government to give a reward to the family of the girl's friend and her parents, who fought for justice on behalf of the girl“.
The girl committed suicide in 1993 after being frustrated by delayed justice and alleged harrassment of her family by the authorities.
As Ms. Karat spoke, cries of “Shame, Shame!” could be heard from the members and the moment she concluded, the entire House associated itself with the statement.
