All women sexual assault cases to be presided over by women Judges: Chief Justice Shah

In a decision that will be hailed by women the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court Mohit Shah has yesterday directed that cases involving sexual assault against women be assigned exclusively to the Courts presided over by women Judicial Officers.

Pointing out that cases involving sexual assault against women are required to be dealt with greater sensitivity, Chief Justice Mohit Shah has further directed that it was desirable that all staff members of these Courts i.e. Bench Clerks, Stenographer, Interpreter, Typist, Clerk, and peon are all women.

The Chief Justice has opined that where women are the victims of crime this will enable the victims to give their evidence in a stress-free atmosphere and without any fear or embarrassment.

In the circular issued by the Registrar General of the Bombay High Court last evening it has been further stated that Chief Justice Mohit Shah has directed that these directions be implemented immediately from today itself to coincide with International Women’s day.