SC Takes Suo Motu Notice of Allahabad HC’s Controversial Order on Attempt to Rape a Minor

The Supreme Court of India on March 25, 2025, took suo motu cognizance of a controversial order passed by the Allahabad High Court on March 17, 2025. The High Court’s judgment had sparked a nationwide debate after it concluded that actions such as grabbing the breasts of a minor victim and breaking the string of her pyjama were not sufficient grounds to charge the accused with attempting to rape her.

The Allahabad High Court, in its ruling, stated that these actions did not indicate the accused’s “determination to commit rape.” The order further raised concerns about the legal interpretation of what constitutes an “attempted rape” and whether such actions should be considered as an attempt to commit a heinous crime.This ruling came under intense scrutiny, as many legal experts, activists, and citizens argued that the court’s stance trivialized serious sexual offenses against minors. The High Court’s decision led to a growing outcry, with many questioning how the judiciary interprets the gravity of sexual assault, particularly involving minors.

Taking immediate note of the situation, the Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing on the matter in the coming days. The suo motu notice signals the top court’s concern over the potential impact of such a judgment on future cases related to sexual offenses, especially in cases involving minors.

Legal experts believe that this case could set a significant precedent in terms of how sexual assault cases, particularly involving minors, are handled by the judiciary.The Supreme Court’s intervention aims to address concerns about the law’s adequacy in safeguarding victims of sexual violence and ensuring that justice is served appropriately.

The hearing, scheduled for the end of March, will likely bring further clarity on the issue and determine whether the High Court’s order was in line with the law and whether the accused should face more serious charges.As the case progresses, it will undoubtedly attract significant attention due to its implications for the interpretation of laws relating to sexual offenses in Bharat.