SC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Judge's Ruling in Pocso Case

The Supreme Court on Tuesday initiated proceedings on its own motion (suo motu) against a controversial judgment delivered by the Allahabad high court on March 17 regarding what constitutes an attempt to rape.

- Utkarsh Anand [e-mail]

NEW DELHI: A bench comprising Justices Bhushan R Gavai and AG Masih will hear the matter on Wednesday. The case has been formally titled: "In re: Order dated 17.03.2025 passed by the high court of judicature at Allahabad in criminal revision no. 1449/2024 and ancillary issue".

Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna decided to initiate proceedings following a letter from senior advocate Shobha Gupta, who urged the CJI to take cognizance of the matter. In her letter, Gupta expressed grave concern over the judgment, stating: "The interpretation by the judge is grossly erroneous, his approach on the subject is insensitive, irresponsible, and sends a very bad message to society at large, which is already grappling with an ever-increasing number of sexual crimes against women of all ages."

Gupta's letter requested the CJI to take up the matter both on the administrative and judicial sides, and also urged that the judge responsible for the ruling be removed from the criminal roster with immediate effect, pending further orders.

Confirming the proceedings, an official report from the Supreme Court stated: "The Hon'ble Court has been pleased to direct the registration of a Suo Motu Writ Petition based on a letter dated 20.03.2025 sent by Ms Shobha Gupta, Sr. Advocate and Founder of 'We the Women of India'."