Fight it out

The Ruchika case has stirred the nation’s conscience. Our moral strength, weakened in recent years, is in dire need of rejuvenation. Our women should play a leading role in this regard. Aradhana is a noble example of a friend. She took up the cudgels against the all-powerful molester of her innocent friend. Her parents stood by her and fought the battle for 19 long years against heavy odds created by the tyrant who was supported by unscrupulous bureaucrats and politicians.

All praise for the worthy family which chose to suffer immensely to uphold human values. Equally praiseworthy is the role of lawyer Pankaj Bhardwaj who fought the case all through without charging any fee. Let his shining example be a lesson for all law-defenders. Fighting for a noble cause is rewarding in itself. Yes, the fight is not yet over. Much more needs to be done. Justice must and will triumph.

Dr P.S. CHANANA, Patiala

II

The six-month jail for Rathore is a mockery of the law particularly when the court had concluded that the offence has been proved to the hilt. Six-month imprisonment is imposed even if a dog is culled under the Prevention of Cruelty Towards Animal Act or if a tree is felled under the environment law.Thus, there is a strong case for re-trial of the case so that justice prevails.

G.D. GUPTA, Jagadhri

III

It is clear case of system failure and not individual aberration. It shows the total failure of the judiciary, the police and the investigating agencies like the CBI. Where were the so-called awakened citizens and NGOs?

When all these cases were being reported in the media, Indians don’t react but overreact and be cautious while reporting. To check this crime, exemplary punishment should be given to the guilty, however high and powerful they may be.

Dr DALER S MULTANI,Mohali

IV

The amendment of the Criminal Procedure Code providing for speedy trial of culprits in sexual offences is welcome. We must ensure that this is implemented in letter and spirit. The government should also spread general awareness on these new amendments. It remains to be seen whether this measure will bring down the crime level in the country.

HARPREET SANDHU, Ludhiana

V

Many women don’t file cases of molestation or rape for the simple reason that there is no chance of getting justice. Ruchika lost her life and the accused had been living with dignity and promotion! The whole country is shocked at the verdict.

As the media, the general public, the judiciary and top politicians have risen to the occasion, there is some ray of hope that justice will finally triumph and that Rathore will be given exemplary punishment.

JASPREET KAUR, Patiala

Cops on the mat

The suspension of five police officers, including two IPS officers, on charge of partying with the associates of underworld don Chota Rajan proves that the Mumbai Police Commissioner has prima facie evidence of their guilt. It is extremely serious since the law enforcing authorities have become a part of the gang of lawbreakers.

Disciplinary proceedings should be launched immediately and completed swiftly. On being found guilty, the accused should be awarded exemplary punishment. No political interference on their behalf or mercy pleas for lenient punishment should be entertained to make it a lesson for others. There can be no compromise on maintaining the highest possible standards of probity in the police department.

R.J. KHURANA, Bhopal