Reveal identity of the deceased and brave gang-rape victim

02 January, 2013

Hiding identity of a living rape victim does make sense as it can affect the normal life of the victim after experiencing the heinous crime. But revealing the identity and photograph of the brave gang-rape victim has taught a fitting lesson to the deaf and dumb decision takers and law-enforcing agencies of this nation.

NAMING AND making her photograph public can be useful for people who consider and want the girl to be a role model. The once-named girl can continue to inspire youngsters of this country who faced the worst of the merciless police brutality through water cannons and lathi charge in the chilly winter of India's rape capital - though their only sin was that they were seeking justice for prevention of crime against women.

The authorities shamefully snatched the constitutional right of people for a meaningful protest by closing Delhi Metro stations and making India Gate (New Delhi) out-of-bounds for expressing their solidarity with the departed soul.

The Union government has acted against the wishes of the people by managing a high-profile cremation of the brave girl in the early morning hours - without giving people a chance to pay homage. If bodies of political leaders can be kept for ‘darshan’ for long, and ‘samadhis’ created against norms set by Union Cabinet, then allowing public darshan for 'Amanat' was the fittest case for cremation with full state honour. A memorial created at the cremation site, the way it is done for deceased former Presidents and Prime Ministers, could have been constructed. Without revealing the identity of the brave physiotherapist-student, it may not be possible to honour her posthumously with the country’s highest civilian award for bravery namely Ashok Chakra - an honour undoubtedly deserved by her.