Maharashtra government is planning to make forcing a woman to undergo a virginity test after marriage a punishable offence. There are communities in the state that follow this custom wherein the bride has to prove that she was virgin before her marriage.
Home minister of state, Ranjeet Patil, held a meeting with some social organization regarding the issue and the Shiv Sena spokesperson Neelam Gorhe was also present at the meeting.
“Virginity test will be considered a form of sexual assault…after consultations with the Law and Judiciary department, a circular will be issued declaring it a punishable offence,” the minister told.
He also said that his department will hold a review of cases of sexual assault and ensure low pendency of such cases reaches to the court. The review will be held bi-monthly.
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The demeaning custom is allegedly followed in the Kanjarbhat community among others. According to the media report, two instances of forced virginity test for brides in the Kanjarbhat community have come to light in Pune. Some youth from the community have launched an online campaign against it.
Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray tweeted, ” Those forcing virginity tests for women will be booked for sexual assault!” I’m extremely proud of my senior colleague @neelamgorhe ji and the other activists for taking this up. This isn’t only an issue for/ of women, it is about the society at large. More power to her.”
“Those forcing virginity tests for women will be booked for sexual assault!” I’m extremely proud of my senior colleague @neelamgorhe ji and the other activists for taking this up. This isn’t only an issue for/ of women, it is about the society at large. More power to her ?? https://t.co/DfSZuXdHlI
— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) February 7, 2019
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has expressed its concern over the reports that suggested forcing of virginity test for brides in Kanjarbhat community.
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