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The Bombay High Court's recent directive to the Maharashtra government, emphasizing the importance of educating boys about right and wrong, reflects a growing concern about the prevalence of sexual assault cases, particularly against children. This directive, delivered during a hearing on a suo motu PIL regarding the sexual assault of two young girls in Badlapur, underscores the court's stance on addressing the root cause of such crimes. The court's call for 'beta padhao aur beti bachao' (Educate The Son And Protect The Daughter) emphasizes the crucial role of education and sensitization in preventing future incidents. This approach aligns with the broader societal discourse on tackling sexual violence, where addressing patriarchal norms and fostering a culture of respect are paramount.
Beyond the call for education, the court also expressed dissatisfaction with the police investigation into the Badlapur case. The bench criticized the 'stereotypical' manner in which the investigation was being conducted, highlighting concerns about its thoroughness and impartiality. The court's directives to the police, emphasizing the need for a watertight case and ensuring a fair investigation, underscore the importance of holding perpetrators accountable while ensuring justice for the victims. The court's scrutiny of the police investigation signifies a commitment to holding authorities responsible for ensuring a fair and thorough investigation into serious crimes, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals.
The formation of a committee by the court to address issues related to school safety is a significant step towards addressing the systemic vulnerabilities that contribute to sexual assault. This committee, tasked with developing measures to safeguard children from sexual assault in both urban and rural areas, recognizes the complex nature of the problem and the need for a multi-pronged approach. The inclusion of former High Court judges, Justices Sadhana Jadhav and Shalini Phansalkar-Joshi, as heads of the committee reflects the court's commitment to drawing upon expertise and ensuring a comprehensive and effective response to the issue of school safety. This move signals a proactive approach to tackling the root causes of sexual violence and creating a safer environment for children within schools.
Source: 'Beta padhao, beti bachao': High Court's advice over Badlapur sexual assault case