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Uniform compensation schemes for rape victims: SC

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed all states and Union Territories (UTs) to formulate a uniform scheme to provide compensation to all victims of rape and sexual assault, especially those who are handicapped, saying that there was “need to introspect” on their rehabilitation.

The Apex Court said they should consider and formulate programmes for such victims in the light of the scheme framed in Goa, which provides compensation of up to Rs 10 lakh.

“All States and UTs shall make all endeavour to formulate a uniform scheme for providing victim compensation in respect to rape/sexual exploitation with the physically handicapped women as required under the law, taking into consideration the scheme framed by the State of Goa for rape victim compensation,” a Bench of Justices MY Eqbal and Arun Mishra said.

It said the authorities should look into Victim Compensation Scheme under Section 357-A of the CrPC for providing compensation to the victim or dependents who have suffered loss as a result of such crime.

“It is clear that no uniform practice is being followed in providing compensation to the rape victim for the offence and for her rehabilitation. This practice of giving different amounts ranging from Rs 20,000 to Rs 10,00,000 as compensation for the offence of rape under Section 357 A needs to be introspected by all States and UTs...No amount of money can erase the trauma and grief the victim suffers. This aid can be crucial with aftermath of crime,” the Bench said.
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