Judges should be sensitive in rape, trafficking cases: Sikri

Supreme Court Justice A K Sikri today said judges should be sensitive and sympathetic in rape and trafficking cases, and urged courts to avoid giving unnecessary adjournments.
Speaking at the valedictory function of a two-day judicial officers' conference here, he said, "How you handle such cases is very important."
On protection of witnesses, Sikri said a "level playing field" is essential.
He also advised the courts to avoid giving unnecessary adjournments, and asked judges to build a strong image so that the petitioners hesitate from seeking further dates.
Justice Sikri made these comments at an event held at the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, an official release of the Uttar Pradesh government said.

Addressing the audience, Sunita Krishnan, a Padma Shri awardee, said that efforts should be made to end social injustice to rape victims.