Supreme Court: Bodily Injuries Not Necessary To Prove Sexual Assault; Victims Respond To Trauma In Different Ways

The Supreme Court in the case Dalip Kumar @ Dalli Versus State Of Uttarakhand observed and has reiterated that bodily injuries are not necessary to prove sexual assault.

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The court stated that it being a common myth that sexual assault must leave injuries. The court, while elaborating it explained that victims react to trauma in different ways and it is not just to expect a uniform reaction.

The court stated that, 'Victims respond to trauma in varied ways, influenced by factors such as fear, shock, social stigma or feelings of helplessness. It being neither realistic nor just to expect a uniform reaction and the stigma associated with sexual assault often creates significant barriers for women, making it difficult for them to disclose the incident to others.'

The bench comprising of Justice Hrishikesh Roy and Justice S.V.N. Bhatti was hearing the present matter.