Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has expressed profound concern and termed a 1979 Supreme Court ruling concerning a rape case as a "moment of institutional embarrassment". The case in question involves the acquittal of individuals accused of raping a young woman, Mathura, within a police station.

The 1979 ruling has long been a source of criticism and legal debate. The Supreme Court, in its judgment, had acquitted the accused policemen, raising questions about the understanding and application of consent in cases of sexual assault. This verdict sparked widespread protests and activism, contributing significantly to the evolution of rape laws in India.

CJI Chandrachud's recent remarks highlight a renewed focus on ensuring justice and sensitivity in cases of sexual violence. Speaking at a legal forum, the CJI emphasized the need for the judiciary to acknowledge and rectify past errors to maintain public trust and uphold the principles of justice. He stated that the Mathura rape case ruling reflected a flawed understanding of consent and the power dynamics inherent in custodial environments.

"It is important for institutions to acknowledge when they have fallen short of delivering justice," CJI Chandrachud stated. "The Mathura rape case is a stark reminder of the need for continuous introspection and reform within the judiciary."

The CJI's statement comes at a time when India is grappling with several critical legal questions surrounding sexual offenses, including the debate around marital rape. Recently, a bench led by CJI Chandrachud deferred hearings on a plea to strike down exceptions to the marital rape provision, acknowledging that it wouldn't be possible to conclude the hearing before his retirement date. Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy urged the bench to continue hearing the matter, emphasizing that his legacy would warrant that the case be heard for millions of women.

Moreover, President Droupadi Murmu has also voiced concerns about the delayed verdicts in rape cases, emphasizing the lack of sensitivity felt by the common man when judgments are delivered after generations. CJI Chandrachud has acknowledged the issue of pending cases and vacancies in judicial posts at the district level, emphasizing the need for national-level recruitment to address these challenges.

CJI Chandrachud has been a vocal advocate for individual autonomy and privacy, demonstrated through his judgments in cases decriminalizing homosexuality and adultery. His comments on the 1979 rape ruling underscore his commitment to addressing historical injustices and ensuring a more equitable legal system. The CJI's remarks serve as a call to action for the judiciary and legal fraternity to critically examine past judgments, address systemic biases, and strive for a more just and empathetic approach to cases of sexual violence.