Apologise for rape remark, Supreme Court tells Azam Khan

New Delhi: The Supreme Court directed Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan on Thursday to file an affidavit in two weeks tendering an unconditional apology for his reported remarks against the victims of the Bhulandshahar gangrape case.

A bench of justices Dipak Misra and Amitav Roy accepted the submissions of senior counsel Kapil Sibal — appearing for Azam Khan — that if any statement made by Mr Khan insulted or humiliated the victim, he would file an unconditional apology, supported with by affidavit.

The counsel for Uttar Pradesh informed the court that the two victims were each given Rs 10 lakh and two residential houses. Arrangements will also be made for the education of the minor girl. He  submitted that steps will be taken to get the victim admitted to a Kendriya Vidyalaya within a month.

The bench said “Needless to say, the expenses shall be borne by the state of UP. The petitioner, who is the father of the victim, shall indicate the choice of the school within a week.”

The school administration where the girl shall be admitted shall see to it that she is treated with respect, for the dignity of a woman is absolutely uncompromisable with any kind of thought or concept or idea, which some time notioned in fancy.”

Mr. Fali S. Nariman, Amicus Curiae submitted that for the purpose of this case, unconditional apology may be accepted, but the questions framed by this Court on August 29 should be debated and a decision be rendered so that before anyone, who holds a public office or authority, makes a statement, would be careful in respect of a victim, especially a victim of rape or molestation.

The bench said the questions framed by this Court have been of significance and are required to be debated. It sought the assistance of the Attorney General in this regard and posted the case for further hearing on December 7 to consider the affidavit of Azam Khan.