Justice L. Victoria Gowri of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has made strong observations regarding the current state of women’s safety in Tamil Nadu and criticized the negligent approach of officials while hearing a case filed by an affected woman, as reported in Nakkheeran.
During the hearing, the court noted that it had earlier directed the Dean of Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital to submit a comprehensive medical report regarding the woman’s health condition.
However, instead of submitting the report sought by the court, an entirely different report was filed addressing whether the woman was eligible for an abortion. The court observed that the report reflected a failure to properly understand the judicial direction and described it as a highly negligent and irresponsible submission.
Expressing shock over the conduct of a senior medical officer holding such a high position, Justice Victoria Gowri directed the Dean of Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital to appear before the court in person on June 10 and explain the circumstances under which the report was submitted.
While commenting on the developments in the case, Justice Victoria Gowri observed that although the Chief Minister has repeatedly stated that the administration would function in a manner that ensures the safety of women, the present reality appears to be entirely different, with women continuing to face an unsafe environment.
The judge further remarked that when a woman who has suffered harm approaches the court seeking justice, it is unacceptable for senior officials and medical professionals to respond in such an insensitive manner by submitting careless reports instead of addressing the issues raised by the court.
Justice Victoria Gowri emphasized that women’s safety should not remain merely a declaration or promise on paper, but must be implemented effectively in reality. The judge recorded these observations while dealing with the case and underscored the need for genuine action to ensure the protection and welfare of women.
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