AMBA explains
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 19 2014:
Referring to the recent spate of violence against women including rape and murder in different parts of the State, the all Manipur Bar Association has cited lapses and delays in police investigation, absence of sufficient evidence, failure to file chargesheets in time and absence of witnesses for the failure to deliver justice in most of these cases.
Addressing a press meet at AMBA office today, its president Kh Mani said that even when the guilty have been punished in only a few cases of crimes against women most of them could not be penalised promptly.
In order to enable police complete their investigation thoroughly, it is crucial for the witnesses to come out and give their statements to police.
At the same time, articles and clothes used/worn by the culprits/victims should be sent to the relevant examiners without any delay.
Moreover, statements of victims of rape and sexual assault should be recorded in front of a Judicial Magistrate, First Class within 24 hours of the crime being committed.
Investigating Officers should immediately take the victims to the hospitals for medical examination.
After completing due investigation, police should file chargesheets at relevant Courts without any loopholes.
The next step is a speedy trial by the Court.
If the accused is found guilty, then they should be awarded befitting punishment.
In case there is no sufficient evidence to convict the accused, he should be released with honour.
Resorting to violent agitation over crimes against women rather that cooperating with police would impede police investigation.
The agitation in front of a Court complex at Thoubal a few days back was condemnable and AMBA strongly condemns it, he said.
Taking recourse to mob justice before any accused is pronounced guilty is a contravention of the civilized norms of a society, added Mani.
Even criminal contempt cases can be registered against people who pose hurdles in the proceedings of Court in the name of fighting for justice.
No one has the right to influence the Court or dictate that such and such accused should not be granted bail, Mani added.