Debate Intensifies: Legal Immunity and Marital Rape in India

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud postponed a pivotal hearing on the immunity granted to husbands in marital rape cases. With the Diwali recess approaching, he stressed the importance of a comprehensive debate. The current law exempts husbands from prosecution if their wife is not a minor.

In a significant development, Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has deferred the hearing on pleas challenging the immunity granted to husbands in marital rape cases. The delay, announced on November 10, comes as the Supreme Court prepares for the Diwali recess.

The Chief Justice emphasized the necessity of providing adequate time for all legal counsel involved to present their arguments in this contentious matter, marking the hearing for reconsideration by another bench in four weeks.

Current legislation under the Indian Penal Code and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provides immunity to husbands from prosecution for rape, sparking a debate against the backdrop of evolving social dynamics.

(With inputs from agencies.)