Madras HC recalls its order referring a rape case to mediation Saturday July 11,2015

Following severe criticism from civil society, the Madras High Court has recalled its earlier order that referred a rape case for mediation, “in view of the Supreme Court judgment.”

Justice P. Devadass also cancelled the interim bail granted to the convict and further directed him to surrender before a Mahila court in Cuddalore by Monday. The Officer-in-Charge of Mediation Centre was also directed stop the parties from attending the mediation, and the Registrar (Judicial) was asked to ensure compliance of this order.

“The petitioner shall surrender before the trial Court - Mahila Court, Cuddalore on 13.7.2015, in default, the trial Court shall issue warrant to secure the petitioner/accused and commit him to Central Prison, Cuddalore,” the judge said in the latest order.

The Additional Public Prosecutor was also directed to file a counter in the appeal bail petition in two weeks.

 Note

Justice Devadass had on June 10,2015 referred a rape case to mediation and further granted an interim bail to the convict to hold talks with the rape survivor, which evoked strong reactions from the civil society and members of the legal fraternity. The rape survivor was against the order referring for mediation and questioned how she could live with a person who had raped her. 

The Supreme Court too in a recent order on July 01,2015 held against referring mediation in rape cases.