Jharkhand High Court Issues Landmark Guidelines on Rape and Crimes Against Women 

Jharkhand: The Jharkhand High Court has issued a comprehensive set of directions to the state government aimed at improving the investigation, prosecution, and rehabilitation processes in rape and other crimes against women. The Court directed that preliminary investigations in rape cases be completed within 15 days and final investigations within two months of the FIR being registered. It also prohibited the discredited “two-finger test” for survivors, ordered better victim support services, counselling, rehabilitation measures, and protection of victims’ identities. Additionally, the Court directed the government to ensure functioning emergency helplines, provide educational support for children born from rape, and train police, medical personnel, and other officials to handle such cases sensitively and professionally. 

Legal Significance 

The judgment strengthens the implementation of survivors’ rights by imposing time-bound investigation standards, prohibiting scientifically invalid medical practices, and emphasizing rehabilitation alongside prosecution. It also reinforces constitutional guarantees of dignity, equality, and access to justice by requiring the State to adopt a victim-centric approach in handling sexual violence cases.  

📰 Source: Times Of India (English)