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The Delhi High Court, in a landmark decision, has significantly enhanced the compensation awarded to a victim of sexual abuse, underscoring the importance of providing adequate financial and emotional support to survivors of such traumatic experiences. This case, stemming from a criminal case registered in 2018 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO Act), sheds light on the complexities of justice and healing for victims of sexual violence.
The victim, a young girl, had endured horrific abuse at the hands of her father, who was arrested in December 2018. Tragically, the perpetrator took his own life while the criminal trial was pending, bringing the court proceedings to a premature end. Despite the closure of the criminal case, the victim's journey towards healing and recovery had just begun. The initial compensation awarded by the trial court, a mere ₹85,000, was woefully inadequate, failing to acknowledge the profound trauma she had endured and the ongoing challenges she faced.
The victim's legal representative argued convincingly that the compensation was insufficient, emphasizing the profound psychological impact of the abuse and the victim's family's precarious financial situation. With her mother being the sole breadwinner, earning a meager ₹7,000 per month, the family struggled to make ends meet. The victim, deeply affected by the trauma, had been forced to discontinue her education for a year, further highlighting the need for substantial support to enable her to pursue her educational goals and rebuild her life.
The Delhi High Court, recognizing the inadequacy of the initial compensation, took a decisive step towards ensuring justice for the victim. The court acknowledged the profound impact of the abuse on the victim's life, both emotionally and financially. By increasing the compensation to ₹10.5 lakhs, the court underscored the importance of providing victims with the resources necessary to address their physical and emotional needs, including access to therapy, education, and other forms of support. This decision sets a significant precedent, demonstrating the court's commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of victims of sexual abuse.
The Delhi High Court's decision is not just a victory for this specific victim but a testament to the growing recognition of the need for comprehensive justice for survivors of sexual violence. It highlights the crucial role of the legal system in providing not just punishment for perpetrators but also tangible support and resources for victims to navigate the complex path towards healing and recovery. This decision marks a significant step forward in ensuring that victims of sexual abuse are not only protected from further harm but also empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.
Source: Delhi High Court enhances compensation for sexual abuse victim from ₹85k to ₹10.5 lakhs