On December 28, 2024, the Madras High Court convened a special session to address the alleged sexual assault of a second-year engineering student within Chennai's Anna University campus. A division bench comprising Justice S.M. Subramaniam and Justice V. Lakshminarayanan presided over the proceedings, which were initiated in response to multiple petitions calling for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident.
Formation of Special Investigation Team (SIT)
The court identified significant lapses by both the police and university authorities in handling the case. Consequently, it ordered the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) composed exclusively of female Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to ensure a thorough and sensitive investigation. The bench emphasized the necessity for the SIT to conduct its inquiry diligently and to file chargesheets promptly, ensuring that all offenders are prosecuted, regardless of their status or position.
Leakage of First Information Report (FIR)
A critical issue addressed during the hearing was the unauthorized disclosure of the First Information Report (FIR), which contained personal details of the survivor. The court condemned this breach, highlighting the additional trauma inflicted upon the victim and her family due to the leak. It described the incident as a severe failure on the part of the police and mandated a comprehensive investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the breach.
Interim Compensation and Support Measures
In a move to provide immediate relief, the court directed the state government to disburse an interim compensation of ₹25 lakh to the survivor. It stipulated that this amount should be recoverable from individuals found culpable of dereliction of duty and involvement in the FIR leak. The court clarified that this interim compensation does not preclude the survivor from seeking further reparations through criminal proceedings.
Additionally, the bench lauded the survivor's bravery in reporting the assault and instructed Anna University to offer counseling services to support her mental and emotional well-being. The university was also ordered to facilitate the survivor's continued education by waiving all associated fees, including tuition, hostel, examination, and miscellaneous charges.
Security Provisions
Recognizing potential threats to the survivor and her family, the court ordered the Director General of Police to provide interim protection to ensure their safety throughout the investigation and any ensuing legal processes.
Critique of Police Conduct
During the session, the court criticized the Chennai Police Commissioner for conducting a press conference to discuss the case without obtaining prior authorization from the government. The bench noted that such actions are not sanctioned by service rules and deemed the press briefing inappropriate. It urged the government to review the matter and take suitable action against the commissioner for this procedural lapse.
Conclusion
The Madras High Court's decisive actions underscore its commitment to ensuring justice for the survivor and addressing systemic failures by authorities. By constituting an all-female SIT, ordering substantial interim compensation, and mandating institutional support for the survivor, the court aims to foster a more responsive and accountable framework for handling such grievous incidents. The directives also serve as a stern reminder to law enforcement and educational institutions about their responsibilities in safeguarding individuals and upholding the rule of law.
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