Why is it in news?
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The victim of a crime should have a say in the punishment of the criminal the Supreme Court has said.
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SC held that punishment should be “meaningful” to the victim also.
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In criminal prosecution, the State takes the front seat while the victim becomes a prosecution witness.
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The crime is primarily considered a wrong against society and the punishment, a deterrent for prospective offenders
Rationale of order
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With its order, the Supreme Court, has made it clear that the victim or her family ”” who has suffered the crime ”” should have an equal say in the punishment of the perpetrator.
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A victim impact statement or a victim impact assessment must be given due recognition so that an appropriate punishment is awarded to the convict
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What may be ‘justice’ in the rule book may not serve the victim.
Source
The Hindu