In the ongoing suo-moto hearing of the distressing stripping and assault case in Belagavi district, the High Court of Karnataka on Monday emphasized the need for collective responsibility within society. Addressing the societal dynamics, the court highlighted the importance of educating the boy child, stating, "It is 'beta padhao,' to save the girl child. It is for the boy to be told to respect and protect the lady," as reported by PTI.
The case, taken suo motu by the HC on December 12, involves the brutal assault of a 42-year-old woman in Hukkeri Taluk. The incident occurred after her son eloped with a girl from the same village and the ST community. Expressing concern over the lack of collective intervention during the assault, the HC cited historical measures taken by Lord William Bentinck and noted, "It is not the action of offenders, but the inaction of those standing at the spot that is more dangerous."
Highlighting the scarcity of assistance during the incident, the HC pointed out that out of a village population of 8,000, only one person came to the rescue of the victim. The court urged the need for instilling values in the next generation to build a good society and nation.
In discussions about witness reluctance, the HC suggested that fear of the police, possibly due to mistreatment, could contribute to bystanders' silence. The court proposed the consideration of new laws for collective responsibility and emphasized the importance of ensuring the law keeps pace with people's lives to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
The HC commended the steps taken by the State of Karnataka, including interim compensation, medical treatment, and land allotment to the victim. It noted the suspension of Police Inspector Vijay Kumar Sinnur for lapses and highlighted the CID's ongoing investigation. The court listed the matter for the next hearing in January, directing authorities to file a further status report.
