The four men accused in the dastardly Nirbhaya rape and
murder case of 16 December 2012 have been sentenced to hanging unto death. The
sentence was to be announced on Wednesday, September 11; but the judge deferred
it by two days to Friday the 13th – and returned with the correct
verdict and sentence.
This is the first positive ruling that may bring heart to
the women of India. The sentencing of the so-called “juvenile” was a disgrace
and a slap in the face of every woman in India. But this sentence is about
right. At least a first step towards attempting to give women a sense of
security. But hold your horses before you rejoice.
A sentence, even from the Supreme Court is not final.
Strange, isn’t it? But even Supreme Court verdicts and sentences can be
appealed. And re-appealed. Right up to seeking the President’s pardon. And if
by mischance, there is a President like Pratibha Patil, there is even a likelihood
that these criminals will walk out.
The celebration has to be held back till the men pay for
their sadism and brutality with their lives.
But does this mean that women will be better protected in
India? No one knows. Recent articles in various publications have covered
experiences of Indian travellers – from casual tourists, to filmmakers and
employees of Indian Foreign Service -- being called “rapists” or “hailing from a
nation of rapists” by citizens of the countries they have travelled to. This is
across all continents in the world. India is quickly being black-listed as a
tourist destination, especially for single women.
Bombay, just a decade back, called a “safe” city is no
longer so. The Shakti Mills gang rape in the evening has traumatised all women in this megapolis bustling with a
huge female workforce. Kolkata, respectable Calcutta, has areas where women
cannot venture into by seven in the evening.
So, while the sentence has been announced, it remains to be
seen whether there will be justice for Nirbhaya and for the women in India,