Insulting women in the name of witchcraft… Supreme Court expressed displeasure, what else did it say?

New Delhi: The Supreme Court expressed surprise that a woman was publicly humiliated and used physical force in the case of witchcraft allegations. The court said that these are facts that shock the conscience of the court. It is true that such acts are happening in the 21st century. A bench led by Justice CT Ravikumar of the Supreme Court is hearing a petition challenging the order of the Patna High Court in which the investigation of the case was stayed. The case is from Champaran district of Bihar in March 2020. Here 13 people are accused of attacking the complainant’s grandmother, accusing her of witchcraft. It is alleged that the accused publicly humiliated her by calling her a witch and tore her clothes. Another woman who came to the rescue was also attacked. The police had registered an FIR in the matter. The police filed a charge sheet and the magistrate took cognizance of the case. However, the High Court, while hearing the petition of the accused, had stayed the proceedings.

The Supreme Court expressed surprise at the nature of the allegations. The court said that dignity lies at the core of a person’s existence in society. Any act which diminishes the dignity of a person, even if done by another person, is against the spirit of the Constitution. The Constitution ensures security to all persons. When dignity is compromised, human rights are at risk.

SC criticized the state government

The court criticized the state government for not challenging the relief granted to the accused by the High Court. The police also delayed in registering the FIR, due to which the complainant had to approach the magistrate. The top court said the decision to litigate on state issues should not depend only on the financial benefit to the state, but should also reflect its responsibility towards justice and the rule of law. The court directed the trial court to hear the case on a daily basis. The accused were ordered to appear on January 15 so that the hearing could take place.

concern of court

The court said that it is the fundamental duty of all citizens to promote the spirit of harmony and brotherhood among all. The court said that allegations like witchcraft are usually leveled against women, especially widows or elderly women. These accusations often result in public humiliation, brutality, and sometimes even death. Such cases are against not only India’s legal framework but also international treaties and declarations that advocate protecting women from such exploitation. The Court called such cases a blot on the constitutional spirit and reflects the concern of the Court.