Astonishingly, close to 40% of complainants either go hostile or retract their statements. This has raised important concerns about the quality of investigations, intimidation or coercion of witnesses, and the strength of prosecutions.
Although the government has paid out more than ₹88 crore in compensation over four years, there is no provision for refunding money in cases proved false or withdrawn.
Worse is that, courts do not keep proper records of perjury or false accusations, enabling repeated abuse of the system with impunity.
Viral Video: CBI Attacked with Shocking Weapon
The suspects-most of whom may indeed be found to be innocent-incur massive personal and professional harm. Acquittal does not remove the shame or provide compensation.
The system provides no justice for either real victims who are let down by incompetent investigations or the innocent persons accused and devastated by the process.
YouTubers vs Indian Media: Copyright or Extortion?
This is not a Delhi issue-it is a systemic breakdown. Sensational reporting does nothing to stem the rot.
What we need is thorough reform: tough, impartial investigations, tough enforcement of perjury laws, and protection of the innocent. Until such time, justice will be an elusive dream for all.