BENGALURU: The Supreme Court on Monday, after taking into account the rising sexual crimes against children in the country, suggested that the Parliament introduce harsher laws for offenders. Among these laws, the SC has also suggested that child rapists be castrated, which according to it, would act as a deterrent for such crimes. The Court, however, has not issued any directions or passed any orders in that regard.
However, this move by the apex court has sparked a debate among child rights experts across the country and city on whether such a decision will do more good or harm.
Express spoke to child experts across the city for their opinions on the issue. Most experts suggested that the decision be taken after intensive deliberations with the stake-holders concerned.
Speaking to Express, Nagasimha Rao of the Child Rights Trust, said “Recently, the Juvenile Justice Act was amended, which brought down the age of children from 18 to 16 years in terms of sexual offences. Now, what if the rapist is aged less than 16 years of age? According to the proposed decision, will he be castrated too? Secondly, according to the POCSO Act, the definitions of sexual assault and exploitation are clear. However, the Act does not define sexual harassment. If the offender winks or verbally assaults a child, will that person be castrated? Does attempt to rape also fall under the category? There are several such gaps, which can be solved after deliberations in this regard,” he opined.
Castration Not the Answer
Kripa Alva, chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for the Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) said, “Punishment will serve no purpose. I am not in support of castration for child rapists. Initially, I also supported such harsh punishments, but after taking over as chairperson, there have been debates in this regard. The conclusion that we have arrived at is that these rapists are below poverty line or are forced to commit such acts."
Many others also believe that castration is not the answer.