The Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2013, was a landmark change in India's criminal justice system, introduced in response to the nationwide outrage following the Nirbhaya gang rape case in December 2012. It was later replaced by the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, but the ordinance marked the beginning of urgent legal reform.
Key Features:
- Expanded the definition of rape: It included acts beyond traditional intercourse, such as penetration by objects or other body parts.
- Introduced new offences under the Indian Penal Code (now under BNS):
- Stalking
- Voyeurism
- Acid attacks
- Disrobing
- Sexual harassment
- Stronger punishment for rape, including life imprisonment and, in extreme cases, the death penalty
- More victim-centric approach:
- A woman's character or sexual history became legally irrelevant in rape trials.
- Introduced stricter guidelines for recording statements, especially ensuring privacy and dignity
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