Rehab boards, trauma teams for rape victims in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra government today told the Bombay High Court that it would form 'rehabilitation boards' and 'trauma teams' in every district to offer support to the victims of rape, sexual assault and acid attack, in keeping with its newly-introduced 'Manodhariya' (morale) policy.
The court, hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by Forum Against Oppression of Women, had asked the government to state what policy it had framed for rehabilitating victims of sexual assault and other crimes targeting women.
These measures are in addition to the compensation ranging from Rs 50,000 to three lakhs payable to the victims under the policy, according a government resolution of October 21, issued by Women and Child Development Department.

As a copy of the GR was produced today, the bench headed by Justice P V Hardas adjourned the matter to November 25.
A compensation of Rs three lakh would be paid to the victim immediately in the cases of rape and serious injuries in acid attacks. For less serious cases, Rs two lakh would be given -- half the amount after filing of FIR and the rest after filing of chargesheet.
'District Criminal Injuries and Rehabilitation Board' would be formed to decide the nature and intensity of the offence so that a suitable compensation could be paid.

Police officer in charge of Police Stations, on registration of FIR, shall inform the President of the Board about the offence.

'Trauma team' consisting of a female counsellor, medical officers, support persons and police personnel would visit the victim.
Under the Manodhariya policy, the victims are entitled to free services of psychiatrists.
For rehabilitation, whenever necessary, the victims would be provided with accommodation, counselling, medical aid, legal help and vocational training, the GR says.