Things never to say to a survivor in court Back
During field research, experts and survivors told us of the humiliating questions and comments they have heard in court. We felt the need to draw up a list of things that must never be said to a survivor in court.
- A survivor must not be asked questions that are invasive or aggressive.
- A survivor must not be asked to repeatedly narrate the details of the assault.
- A survivor must not be asked questions that raise doubts about her character or humiliate her.
- A survivor should not be accused of lying during cross-examination.
- A survivor must not be asked to make an out-of-court settlement with the accused.
* In consultation with Aparna Bhat, lawyer, Supreme Court of India. Bhat conceived and helped start 'Rape Crisis', a 24/7 support system for survivors of rape and sexual assault in Delhi.