Madras Highcourt
Anupriya Singh
In a significant legal development, the Madras High Court has reaffirmed the conviction of 215 officials from Tamil Nadu’s forest and revenue departments in the notorious 1992 Vachathi rape case. This landmark ruling brings justice to the victims who endured unimaginable suffering for nearly three decades.
A Long-Awaited Verdict
Justice P Velmurugan, presiding over this case since 2011, delivered the verdict, dismissing the appeals filed by the 215 convicts. The judgment underscores the severity of the crimes committed against the tribals of Vachathi village in the Dharmapuri district.
Justice Served
The Madras High Court’s decision not only upholds the conviction but also issues a strong directive to the State government. It orders the government to pay a substantial ₹10 lakh compensation to the 18 women who fell victim to the atrocities committed by State officials during the harrowing incident in 1992. Additionally, the families of the three victims who tragically lost their lives following the incident will receive additional compensation.
Accountability and Restitution
The court also emphasizes accountability by instructing the State to recover 50 percent of the compensation amount from the officials who were convicted and sentenced for the crime of rape. This sends a clear message that justice prevails, even when it takes years to be served.
A Ray of Hope
Recognizing the need for restorative measures, the court mandates welfare initiatives and job opportunities for the families of the victims. It is a step towards healing and improving the quality of life for the tribals residing in Vachathi.
A Judge’s Dedication
Justice Velmurugan’s commitment to delivering justice is evident in his actions. In February this year, he reserved the verdict after hearing the appeals from 126 forest personnel, 84 police personnel, and 5 revenue officials. To gain a deeper understanding of the case, he even visited Vachathi village for a local inspection to comprehend the topography of the area.
A Dark Chapter in History
The Vachathi incident unfolded on June 20, 1992, when personnel from Tamil Nadu’s forest and revenue departments entered Vachathi, allegedly in pursuit of illegal sandalwood activities. What transpired was a horrifying episode of home vandalism, violence against women, and the destruction of livestock. Shockingly, 18 women claimed to have been raped during the raid.
Pursuit of Justice
It took three years for the case to be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in 1995, following a petition by the CPI(M). The trial court, on September 29, 2011, delivered its judgment, convicting 126 forest personnel, including four IFS officers, 84 police personnel, and 5 revenue personnel.
In conclusion, the Madras High Court’s recent verdict in the 1992 Vachathi rape case is a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice. It not only upholds the convictions of the guilty but also underscores the importance of restorative measures for the victims and their families. Justice has been served, albeit after a long and arduous journey through the legal system. This verdict serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that justice, even when delayed, ultimately prevails.