Top court rejects plea against High Court's 'grabbing breasts isn't rape' ruling
The Allahabad High Court recently ruled that the allegation of holding the victim's breasts and breaking the waistband of her pyjama does not constitute a case of rape.
Mar 25, 2025, 05:28 IST
The Supreme Court on Monday refused to hear a petition regarding the Allahabad High Court's recent order ruling that grabbing breasts and breaking pyjama strings is not rape.
The Allahabad High Court, hearing a case of attempted rape of a minor girl in Uttar Pradesh, recently ruled that the allegation of holding the victim's breasts and breaking the waistband of her pyjama does not constitute a case of rape against the accused. The court remarked that it was an allegation of sexual assault.
The Supreme Court of India has declined to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the Allahabad High Court's recent ruling, which held that actions such as grabbing a minor's breasts and breaking the string of her pyjama do not constitute rape or an attempt to rape.
A bench comprising Justices Bela Trivedi and Prasanna B. Varale dismissed the petition, stating that the court was not inclined to entertain it. During the proceedings, when the petitioner's counsel referenced the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao" scheme, Justice Trivedi interrupted, remarking, "No lecture baazi" in court.
The Allahabad High Court's decision has faced criticism from various quarters. Union Minister Annapurna Devi labeled the judgment as "wrong," expressing concern over its implications.
Legal experts and activists have also voiced apprehensions, arguing that the ruling sets a concerning precedent in cases involving sexual offenses against minors. They emphasize the need for a more nuanced understanding of actions that constitute sexual assault and the importance of safeguarding minors from all forms of abuse.
The dismissal of the PIL by the Supreme Court indicates the judiciary's current stance on the matter, leaving the Allahabad High Court's ruling unchallenged at this level.