Introduction:

In a significant development, the Karnataka government has apprised the High Court of the arrest of the accused in the Belagavi woman assault case. The court, presided over by Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice Krishna S Dixit, heard a suo-motu petition concerning the incident where the victim was reportedly beaten, paraded naked, and tied to an electricity pole in Belagavi. The assault occurred after her son eloped with a girl. The court had previously criticized bystanders’ inaction as ‘collective cowardice.’

Arguments of Both Sides:

The state, in its progress report, detailed ongoing investigations and compensation disbursed to the victim. The court acknowledged the completion of the majority of the investigation, including statement recording, and noted that a final report under Section 178 of CrPC is in process. The victim received compensation, and the State allotted land under the Karnataka Valmiki Scheduled Tribe Development scheme. The victim, seeking an alternative land near her village, has her request under consideration by the State.

Court’s Judgement:

The court adjourned the matter for three weeks, instructing the state government to submit necessary reports before the next hearing. It expressed concern over the ‘collective cowardice’ observed during the assault and emphasized the need for collective responsibility in accordance with Article 15 of the constitution. The court appreciated the progress in investigations, compensation, and land allocation, underlining its commitment to addressing the incident.