INTRODUCTION

Gang rape, a horrific crime involving multiple perpetrators forcefully subjecting victims to sexual assault, came to light in the case of a 9-yearand 5- year-old girl from Sahebpur Kamal P.S. Begusarai. One of the victim belongs to the lower section of society and the other victim belongs to the beggar class, victims also belong to the minority section, both of them fell victim to a brutal gang rape by two boys.

CASE OVERVIEW

On March 08 2023, around 03:00 P.M. two boys brought forcefully the victims to the bathroom of the nearby school and committed the offence of sexual assault. Both the victims were severely injured, blood was coming out from their internal body parts as well as from nose. They bite the cheeks of the minor girl, one of the victim somehow came outside of the bathroom and informed the near shop owner Mohd. Ashraf Ansari that two boys are inside the bathroom and they are doing wrongful act with a girl. Mohd. Ashraf Ansari get inside the bathroom and find that R.Begam (victim) is severely injured and soaked with blood and Sohan Kumar @ Chhotu was doing wrongful act with her and Bablu Kumar was standing there, After watching Mohd. Ashraf Ansari and several other people coming towars the bathroom both of them escaped from the bathroom with the help of Hardeo Mahton and Rohan Kumar.

EVA-BLN INTERVENTION

The Bihar Legal Network (BLN) provided safety and assistance to the victim’s family. 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 victims and her family members.

CONVICTION

With the aid of the Bihar Legal Network (BLN), the accused has been successfully convicted with rigourous imprisonment for life bringing justice to the victim and her family. BLN also helped in getting compensation for the victim’s family. The victim’s family has been awarded a compensation of Ten 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 cause and ensuring justice for survivors we can create a society where women are respected, empowered and free from the fear of sexual violence.