Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences, Ms. Dubravka Simonovic, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 28 June 2021)

Madam President,

We take note of the Special Rapporteur’s thematic report that discusses the heinous crime of rape as well as international and national legal framework for its crimininalisation and prosecution. We also note that she has made references to Indian criminal law and developments in India.

Madam President,

Promoting and protecting the safety, security and dignity of women is a very high priority for the Government of India. Several legislative and schematic interventions have been undertaken in this regard. Criminal law provisions have been amended to ensure effective deterrence against sexual offences and to prescribe more stringent penalties. The amended law mandates completion of investigation within 2 months and expedition of trial in cases of rape.

As noted in the SR’s report, the definition of rape in India explicitly incorporates the element of ‘absence of lack of consent’. Further, the crime is sanctioned commensurate to the gravity of the offence. There is no statute of limitation for the prosecution of rape.

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government has ensured that assistance is offered by Universal Women Help Line, transitional shelters, rehabilitation homes for victims of trafficking and the Emergency Response Support System. Further, various authorities under women centric laws such as ‘The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act’, ‘The Dowry Prohibition Act’, and ‘The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act’ have remained operational and available for providing necessary support during this period.

I thank you.