MADRAS HC DIRECTED TO KEEP COMPLAINT BOXES IN SCHOOL SO THE STUDENTS CAN COME FORWARD AND COMPLAIN ABOUT SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES

Justice P Velmurugan of Madras HC upheld the conviction of a pastor for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old student. The Madras HC observed that female students are often scared to come forward and report a complaint against teachers and management. The court suggested the constitution of a committee and conducted a monthly inspection at schools.

The court further directed to keep complaint boxes in schools so that students can come forward freely and complain about sexual assaults. The keys of the box shall be given or kept under the control of the Secretary District Legal Services Authority. And they are directed to inspect the box along with the District Social Welfare Officer once a week.

The Hon'ble Court issued the directions while dismissing an appeal by a pastor, who had been sentenced to 5 years of Rigorous imprisonment under the protection of children from sexual offences Act. The Appellant lured the victim to his house and thereafter sexually assaulted her. The 8th-grade student immediately informed her friend and later her grandmother.

The appellant argued that he was not present in his residence at the time of the incident, which was also supported by his child and wife. He further contended that false implications were made against him due to some enormity from Church elections. However, the court observed that he failed to present any other independent alibi.

Author: Papiha Ghoshal