The order by a Madras High Court judge referring the case of a convicted rapist for a mediation and settlement with the victim was welcomed by Tamil Nadu state Women’s Commission chief Visalakshi Nedunchezian.
“Mediation is the only solution and if they (the rapist and the victim) can join together, this Commission will be very happy to see that both the criminal and the girl affected get together along peacefully. That is our aim and objective,” she said.
V Mohan was sentenced to seven years in jail for raping a 15-year-old orphan in 2008. The girl became pregnant and is now a young mother of a six-year-old daughter.
Justice P Devadass of the Madras High Court referred a case of the rape convict to its mediation centre to settle the matter taking note of the future of the victim, a ruling that had sparked controversy.
Asked if she agreed with the judge’s ruling, Neduchezian said “there is no question of right or wrong in this case. If the girl has no source of income or livelihood she may adjust and live with him. Toleration is the main point here.