In a powerful intervention that highlights the critical role of judiciary in protecting vulnerable citizens, the Bombay High Court has come down heavily on Mumbai police for their failure to act on a pregnant woman's plea for protection.
A Cry for Help Ignored
The case involves a pregnant woman who sought police assistance to marry her friend, fearing opposition from her family. Despite her vulnerable condition and legitimate safety concerns, the police allegedly failed to register her complaint or provide necessary protection, forcing her to approach the judiciary for relief.
Judicial Rebuke and Directive
A division bench of Justice Revati Mohite-Dere and Justice Gauri Godse expressed strong disapproval of the police's casual approach toward the woman's genuine concerns. The court emphasized that law enforcement agencies cannot remain passive spectators when citizens, especially those in vulnerable situations, seek protection of their fundamental rights.
The court specifically directed the police to:
- Immediately process the woman's complaint and provide necessary protection
- Ensure her safety and security during this sensitive period
- Facilitate the legal formalities for her marriage to her friend
- Take appropriate action against any threats or opposition she might face
Broader Implications for Women's Safety
This ruling serves as a significant precedent for protecting women's autonomy and reproductive rights. The court's firm stance sends a clear message to law enforcement agencies across Maharashtra about their duty to act promptly on complaints from vulnerable individuals, particularly pregnant women facing family opposition or societal pressure.
The judgment underscores that police inaction in such sensitive matters can have serious consequences for the physical and mental well-being of those seeking protection, making timely intervention not just a procedural requirement but a moral imperative.
