INTRODUCTION
Gang rape, a horrific crime involving multiple perpetrators forcefully subjecting a victim to sexual assault, came to light in the case of a 16-year-old girl from Bhagwanpur Ratti, who fell victim to a brutal gang rape and murder by five boys.
CASE OVERVIEW
On June 28, 2021, around midnight, three boys entered the victim’s house through a window, while two or three others remained outside. They used intoxicants to incapacitate the victim and her younger sister. Fortunately, the intoxicants didn’t affect the younger sister much, allowing her to stay conscious, while the victim fainted. When the younger sister attempted to call for help, one of the assailants threatened her with a pistol. She, too, eventually lost consciousness and fell to the ground. At 4 o’clock in the morning, she woke up to find her sister missing and immediately informed the elders about the horrifying incident. The victim’s lifeless body was discovered around 8 o’clock near a bamboo house, with signs of severe assault, including a rope around her neck, broken teeth, scratches, and torn clothes.
EVA-BLN INTERVENTION
The Bihar Legal Network (BLN) provided safety and assistance to the victim’s family, with special attention to the victim’s younger sister. The BLN team visited the police station and took necessary action by submitting an application to both the Superintendent of Police (SP) and the District Magistrate (DM). They sought the arrest of the accused and opposed any bail petitions in the appropriate court to ensure justice for the victim and her family.
CONVICTION
With the aid of the Bihar Legal Network (BLN), the accused has been successfully convicted with life sentence bringing justice to the victim and her family. BLN also helped in getting compensation for the victim’s family. The victims’ family has been awarded a compensation of eight lakh rupees to assist them during this difficult time.
CONCLUSION
Sexual offenses against women in India are a distressing reality that continues to pose a serious threat to their safety and dignity. These heinous acts not only scar the victims but also reflect societal shortcomings that need urgent attention. To combat this menace, a collective effort is required, encompassing legal reforms, stronger law enforcement, awareness campaigns, and a change in attitudes towards women. Only by addressing the root causes and ensuring justice for survivors can we create a society where women are respected, empowered, and free from the fear of sexual violence.
