New anti rape law

The cabinet has passed the proposal of enhancing the punishment for rape to life imprisonment. Along with it, the cabinet has passed a resolution to make the Section on rape (section 375 IPC) as gender neutral, making it an offence to sexually assault men as well. This will go a long way in protecting young boys from sexual exploitation. The term ‘rape’ is replaced by the term ‘sexual assault’.

A new section dealing with acid attacks has also been added that makes it a punishable offence attracting a maximum sentence of 10 years along with a fine of Rs 10 lakhs. The Supreme Court had earlier questioned the Union government about what steps are being taken by it to curb the rising menace of acid attacks on women.

Outraging the modesty of a woman under Section 354 IPC is now punishable with a term of 3 years from earlier 1 year.

The victim’s past life and sexual experiences cannot be raised in trying to impeach his/her claim under the law. A sexual assault affects an individual’s life in more than one way and law needs to be sensitive to their trauma.

It is high time that these amendments are made to deal with the rising instances of assault against women. Sexual offences amount to one of the cruelest form of treatment to any individual and there is a need of the hour that stringent steps are taken to control them.