Article
Rape Victimization in India: A Preliminary Study of Victims and Victim Rights in Gujarat
- Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, India
Abstract
In India, rape victims still experience significant obstacles that prevent them from accessing justice, recognizing trauma, and being acknowledged in the criminal justice process. More recently, reforms and policy directions have surfaced regarding legal reform and victim compensation funds, but the lack of victim-centered forms of justice has become increasingly inconsistent, ineffective, and unmet. This paper presents preliminary empirical research focused on rape victims in the state of Gujarat, to better understand the national struggles from the localization effects. The research examines the multi-dimensional impacts of rape (physical, psychological, financial, and legal) on survivors from a study underpinned by data directly from victims. In addition, the research discusses the Gujarat Victim Compensation Scheme and its practical workings to support the needs of survivors. Previous research often focuses on monetary compensation; this paper illustrates how victims need more comprehensive support mechanisms such as medical services, psychosocial services, legal aid, protection from secondary victimization, and victim-informed policies.
Keywords
How to cite (APA 7)
Ranka, R., Marisport, A., & Thakkar, H. (2025). Rape Victimization in India: A Preliminary Study of Victims and Victim Rights in Gujarat. International Journal of Justice and Police Sciences, 1(1), 128–149. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15625079