SC Issues Notice to Defense Advocates of the Nirbhaya Gang-Rape Case

The Supreme Court issued a notice to the defense lawyers of the Nirbhaya gang-rape case, in light of their statements in India's Daughter, the BBC documentary made by Leslee Udwin.

According to reports, ML Sharma and AP Singh have been issued notice after their controversial remarks in the documentary had brought widespread condemnation. The Supreme Court Women Lawyers' Association, in its petition through advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani, has contended violation of Articles 14 and 21, which provide for gender equality and right to live with dignity. It wants to restrict entry of the two advocates in the apex court premises. The association also sought action against them by the Gender Sensitisation and Sexual Harassment Committee of the Supreme Court and a public apology from both the lawyers. It alleged that their remarks in the documentary were "inhumane, scandalous, unjustifiable, biased, outrageous, ill-minded" and are a "direct affront to and in violation of the dignity of women", especially those practicing in the highest court of law in the country.

Further details are awaited.

The documentary on the December 16, 2012 gang rape, includes an interview of Mukesh Singh, who is among the six men convicted for the gruesome crime. The government had banned its telecast in India, with parties across the political spectrum uniting in an endeavor to stop its broadcast.

Source: ANI