I write to express deep disappointment over the South Goa Sessions Court granting interim relief to Sohan Naik, accused in the Curchorem sexual assault case, barring the police from arresting him until the next hearing.
Judging by certain facts, this decision is troubling. The case was filed only after a journalist’s intervention, and the victims came forward with apprehension and fear. The accused is the son of a councillor and falls in the influential category. Such relief at the preliminary stage itself risks derailing the case, reminiscent of the Kuldeep Singh Sengar case in Uttar Pradesh - a landmark, high-profile example of misuse of political power and a survivor’s fight for justice against an influential politician.
This comes at a time when our country ranks among the worst globally for women’s safety. Our women live in fear. Families worry when they travel or live away from home. Parents hesitate to send their daughters to a different place to pursue careers. When law and order fails women like this, it directly impacts their progress and pushes our country backwards.
While politicians in the ruling party heavily advertise women’s empowerment (women’s reservation), the deteriorating law and order for women’s safety on the ground is hindering real progress. Justice delayed or influenced is justice denied, and it sends the message that power protects perpetrators. The courts and administration must ensure that influence does not dictate process.
