Jammu & Kashmir High Court seeks explanation from its registry over petition revealing rape victim’s name

The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has sought an explanation from its registry after a petition filed before the Court disclosed the name of the rape victim/ complainant.

Justice Shahzad Azeem observed that, since the petitioner had disclosed the name of the victim/complainant, it became necessary to seek an explanation from the registry as to how the petition had been entertained despite repeated directions and circulars issued from time to time regarding such disclosures.

“Keeping in view the fact that the petitioner has disclosed the name of respondent No. 2 (victim/ complainant), it becomes necessary to seek explanation from the Registry as to how this petition has been entertained despite repeated directions/ circulars issued from time to time in this regard,” the High Court observed.

The matter came up before the Court on August 18. After arguments for some time, the counsel appearing for the petitioner sought permission to withdraw the petition. The Court permitted the same.