NCJ Number
106057
Journal
Social Defence Volume: 21 Issue: 82 Dated: (October 1985) Pages: 5-16
Date Published
1985
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Observations are offered concerning the crime of rape in India, including the handling of rape victims and evidence required at trial.
Abstract
Rape is a violent crime often intended to satisfy aggression as well as lust. There are many different kinds of rapists with many different personalities. Poverty and a sense of sacrifice make Indian women physically weak and mentally timid. The crime is often committed against women of lower castes or employees. Teenagers are a very high-risk group everywhere. Some rapists are normal men swayed by a momentary impulse or seduced by the victims' behavior. It is hard for the defendant to prove that he did not initiate the rape. In a New Delhi study, the girls were aged 12 to 16 and came from lower and middle-income groups, while the rapists ranged between 20 and 24 years. Most rapes occurred between 2 to 8 p.m. Figures reported for the offense in India are modest in comparison with those of other countries, but it brings shame and social stigma to Indian women. Welfare agencies should help rehabilitate the victim, using employment and counseling. The long period of a trial in which the victim is harassed should be reduced. Rape victims should insist on convictions. Their statements should be made to women police officers. The previous sexual life of the victim should not be discussed at the trial.