Names Of Sexual Assault Survivors Must Remain Confidential: High Court

Kochi: It’s improper to disclose names of survivors in sexual assault cases, even if the complainants consented to it, the Kerala High Court has ruled.

Justice PV Kunhikrishnan, while hearing a petition involving political commentator Rahul Easwar, said that such actions violated Supreme Court directions.

“Can the Supreme Court directions be violated? Suppose the victim says that I have no objection, can I mention the name? It’s not proper. You can make general statements, don’t individualise,” Justice Kunhikrishnan observed.

Easwar filed an anticipatory bail application seeking protection from police action after an actress complained against him for commenting about her clothing choices. Easwar had mentioned the complainant’s name, which was objected to by the court.

Disposing of the petition, the high court directed Ernakulam Central Police to summon Easwar for questioning, after issuing a formal notice.

The police informed the court that a preliminary investigation, based on the actress’ complaint, was underway and no case had been registered against Easwar.

The high court advised Easwar to be a champion for all citizens, not just men. It was in response to Easwar’s submission that he was trying to establish a men’s commission, similar to the existing women’s commission.

Easwar made controversial remarks about the actress and her clothing during discussions related to the arrest of businessman Boby Chemmanur on various media platforms.