Former Kerala assembly speaker and CPI(M) Thrissur district secretary K Radhakrishnan on Saturday landed in trouble when he revealed the name of the woman who was allegedly raped by a gang of four including Thrissur municipal councillor PN Jayanthan.
Revealing the identity of a sexual assault victim is an offence and the person can be jailed for two years along with a fine.
Asked about his revelation, Radhakrishnan told newsmen that now everyone knew about the woman.
The opposition Congress and BJP have sought strict action against Radhakrishnan, while the National Commission for Women said it will send a notice to him soon. The Thrissur police commissioner has asked a senior officer to examine the video tape of his press meet.
The 32-year-old victim had held a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday alleging that she was gang-raped and the act video-graphed by four persons two years ago. She also alleged that when she approached police, an officer reportedly asked her which of the four gave her maximum pleasure.
Radhakrishnan took the name of the victim while announcing the suspension of the CPI (M) leader allegedly involved in the rape.
{{/usCountry}}Radhakrishnan took the name of the victim while announcing the suspension of the CPI (M) leader allegedly involved in the rape.
{{/usCountry}}“It is really shocking. It seems he took the victim’s name deliberately to add to her insult. He should be booked,” said opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala.
But state health minister KK Shailaja came to Radhakrishnan’s rescue, saying the statement was not intended to portray the woman in bad light and the government would take strict action against perpetrators of the crime after proper investigation.
The CPI, a partner in the ruling coalition, criticised the leader’s statement.
“Action should taken against as per the law against whoever has said this, it doesn’t matter whether the person is a former speaker or minister,” said CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran.