By IANS,
New Delhi : The Delhi High court Monday directed the government to engage social workers and train officials who deal with raped minors for their better rehabilitation.
A bench comprising Justices Manmohan Sarin and S.L. Bhayana said all those involved in the investigation and prosecution of such cases need to be properly trained to reduce the mental trauma of the victim.
“We are concerned and are indeed dismayed that as yet no concrete steps have been taken or any scheme for rehabilitation of victims of rape or child rape victim has been put in operation,” the bench said.
The bench said in child rape cases the police shall immediately inform Delhi Legal Services Authority who would depute a social worker or legal worker to help in the handling of the case and rehabilitation of the victims.
The court’s direction came on petitions filed by rape convicts challenging their conviction by trial courts.
Out of the 12 appeals, the court upheld the life imprisonment of one Khem Chand, who had raped his 11-year-old daughter, but in rest of the cases the bench reduced the quantum of punishment ranging from 10 to 12 years.